Towing without a car braking system??
Just curious how many out there tow without a brake system. I have a brake system that has a light plus audio to alert you when the brake is on. Since I have a diesel pusher with an exhaust brake, ...
Forum Discussion
For me, I think there are several things to be considered. First, if you want to be legal, you need to follow your State rules.
I previously owned a 2005 Diplomat with drum brakes and towed my 2012 4 door Silverado. The Diplomat brakes worked well, but they needed some help stopping that Silverado in some situations (using an SMI Air Force One). I now tow the same truck with my new coach that has front disc brakes, rear drums and drums on the tag axle. I only see the brake light, indicating that my brakes are being applied, in the last few feet of a stop.
I'm looking at getting a lighter/smaller car to tow (CRV) and doubt I need any additional braking help. With that said, I agree with "kalynzoo", that everyone should have some type of break away system. In California, brakes are required on 1500 pounds and above. So...... to be legal, I'll need brakes, but my coach won't need any help to stop a 3500 pound vehicle.
I don't think it's been discussed, but I wonder if a break away "only" system would meet the standards that States impose, like California. I doubt it, but I would feel confident with just a break away when towing a small car with my coach.
I previously owned a 2005 Diplomat with drum brakes and towed my 2012 4 door Silverado. The Diplomat brakes worked well, but they needed some help stopping that Silverado in some situations (using an SMI Air Force One). I now tow the same truck with my new coach that has front disc brakes, rear drums and drums on the tag axle. I only see the brake light, indicating that my brakes are being applied, in the last few feet of a stop.
I'm looking at getting a lighter/smaller car to tow (CRV) and doubt I need any additional braking help. With that said, I agree with "kalynzoo", that everyone should have some type of break away system. In California, brakes are required on 1500 pounds and above. So...... to be legal, I'll need brakes, but my coach won't need any help to stop a 3500 pound vehicle.
I don't think it's been discussed, but I wonder if a break away "only" system would meet the standards that States impose, like California. I doubt it, but I would feel confident with just a break away when towing a small car with my coach.
