Forum Discussion

towpro's avatar
towpro
Explorer
Jan 30, 2017

toad behind Truck camper and brakes question

I have a 2015 Ram, Aisin Transmission, carrying Arctic Fox 990. Weighs in loaded around 13,500 lbs GVWR.

Instead of towing my motorcycle trailer, I am thinking I could also tow my little pickup some times.

I have a 2001 Chevy S10, regular cab, step side bed. Just crossed the scales at dump @ 3200lbs empty, with me in it.

Its already setup as a toad.
Remco disconnect drive shaft (I just went over that,new shift blocks coming in mail).
Wired for brake/tail/turn lights (separate bulbs in factory turn lens, isolated from factory lights).
Blue ox tow bar
I also have the Brake Buddy for the pickup. (which is the enertia version)

Here is my question:
With my Ram (in tow/haul mode, with exhaust brake turned in) , do I really need the brake buddy?
I like technology, but I also realize more high tech = more stuff to go wrong.

were running Flat land on east coast of USA on coastal plain.
Truck Campers
  • romore's avatar
    romore
    Explorer II
    Jan 30, 2017
    Not to mention the GCWR. That is a lot to get stopped in a hurry.
  • Farmerjon's avatar
    Farmerjon
    Explorer
    Jan 30, 2017
    We have towed a lot of miles with different trailers and with a small truck and a jeep without supplemental brakes and have had no problems.
    But we have never had to make an emergency stop either. I think it is a very bad idea not to have brakes on a toad and as has been said in a lot of states it is against the law.
    The rig will stop faster and the toad will not try to pass you or shove you around if you hit the brakes while in a turn. You should have some Break away protection also.
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Jan 30, 2017
    Most states have brake regulations on trailers that exceed 3500 pounds or so. Flat towing your truck could be I guess considered a trailer. Thus, no brakes could get you a ticket.

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