TT Weight limits: theory and reality
There are a ton of threads here regarding the proper matching of TV and TT. Based on what I learned here, I made a very expensive decision to upgrade my brand new 1/2 ton to a 1 ton TV so that I would...
Forum Discussion
TomG2 wrote:Ron Gratz wrote:
.....snip.................
One could argue that the higher GVWR would mean more robust brakes. However, the 2013 F-150 specs page 96 (9 of 15) show that Ford uses the same brakes for 8200# GVWR as for 6450# GVWR.
And, even if brakes do generate greater stopping torque, the stopping force still is limited by friction coefficient and GVW.
Ron
That is interesting (but not surprising) that Ford uses the same brakes on all their F-150's. Compare them to the F-250's and F-350's.
Don't the 3/4 and 1 ton models weigh over 1,000 pounds more than the half ton models, thereby changing the ratio of TV weight to trailer weight? (Towing the same trailer as the half ton) If there is a total failure of the TT brakes, then the TV must stop the whole deal. In which case, I would still rather have brakes designed to stop 9.300 pounds instead of 7,500 pounds. Ever towed on some curvy mountain roads?
My concern would be the trailer jack knifing if its brakes stopped working. Sure, a heavier truck (with beefier brakes and bigger tire patches) might stop faster, but typically you swerve in emergency braking maneuvers, and the trailer could end up going right around you.
Personally, I expend a lot of effort making sure the damn trailer brakes are working as they should. And as long as I'm within the weight ratings of the truck manufacturer, I'm happy.
