Forum Discussion

Jayco-noslide's avatar
Jayco-noslide
Explorer
Apr 25, 2016

Brakes on towed vehicle or not?

Just wondering how many of you have supplemental braking on your toad vehicle or not. Our toad weighs about 2700 lbs. towed behind a 30 ft. Class C 450 Ford chassis so I believe brakes are not legally required. I know many of you will believe that one should still have them. I don't partly because I just don't want one more expense and piece of equipment to fool with and because I know that I'm just not going to stop real fast with an RV regardless. Also, it feel like it stops as well or better than our previous set-up; a half-ton towing a 25 ft. 5th wheel.

33 Replies

Show More
  • hotjag1's avatar
    hotjag1
    Explorer II
    Apr 25, 2016
    When we are not using the enclosed car hauler(which has brakes),we tow a Geo Tracker with no supplementary braking. It weighs about 2600 lbs and we don't even know that it is behind us when stopping. WA. state law, where we reside, requires brakes over 3000 lbs. so we are legal on that.
  • Dutch_12078's avatar
    Dutch_12078
    Explorer III
    Apr 25, 2016
    The laws of physics apply in all states and provinces. An auxiliary brake system will help your coach stop in a shorter distance in a panic stop, and even a just a few inches can make a world of difference sometimes.
  • WNYBob's avatar
    WNYBob
    Explorer
    Apr 25, 2016
    You need to check your state regulations.

    Here in NY trailers that weight more than 1000 lbs need breaks!

About RV Tips & Tricks

Looking for advice before your next adventure? Look no further.25,152 PostsLatest Activity: Aug 01, 2025