Community Forums

firenfix4u2 · 01-12-2018, 05:30 PM

Is there a weight limit on the toad where you don't need brake assist?

tuffr2 · 01-12-2018, 05:49 PM

I do not know the rules for a toad but for boats it is 2,000 pounds or more need brakes. 1,999 lbs. does not need brakes.

I would think that the 2,000 lb threshold would be common for other towed items.

firenfix4u2 · 01-12-2018, 05:55 PM

Thanks. That would be great, now the challenge is to find a 1999 pound car I want to be in!

Donlock · 01-12-2018, 07:52 PM

3000 pounds in canada

**TonyDi** · 01-12-2018, 08:39 PM

Why would you not want brake assist?

firenfix4u2 · 01-12-2018, 08:57 PM

Just checking options. If there is a known safe weight for a toad where brake assist isn't needed, why would you want to spend over a thousand to have it installed? If there is no safe weight without brake assist, then I will gladly purchase.

Oldelevatorman · 01-12-2018, 09:05 PM

It's not safe at any weight without some kind of assist. You're overworking your vehicles brakes. C'mon man!

Cat · 01-12-2018, 10:30 PM

Anything that you add- adds weight which makes the stopping distance increase. The difference between an accident and no accident is stopping 1" 6" 12" sooner. If you 12" too late you justed dented something 12". Get something with a brake.

Bigd9 · 01-13-2018, 07:40 AM

The answer to the OP's question is it will vary depending on what state (or country) you are driving in at the time. Unlike driver's license where you are legal in any state or Canada as long as you are legal in your home state, other vehicle laws will vary from state to state. If you should be stopped for a vehicle violation, you must meet that states laws.

At least that is my understanding of the system

wa8yxm · 01-13-2018, 08:17 AM

Two laws apply to towing with/without brake assist.
Different states have different laws. Ranging from around 1500 pounds to 4,000 pounds IF they even require brakes. Moral: Your millage may vary.

CIVIL law however is less forgiving IF YOU REAR END someone.

According to US-Gear a proper aux brake system can reduce your stopping distance by as much as 30%.

So if you rear end me, and you DO NOT have aux brakes. I'm ging to call Dewy, Cheatum & Howe (Ok so that's a fictional law firm from the 3 Stooges) or rather a Real Lawyer. and discuss "Reckless Endangerment".. I believe the precedent is half a million dollars.

**Lt Dan** · 01-13-2018, 08:25 AM

It's not only a question of the braking system for stopping, it's that most states require a breakaway system in case the towed vehicle becomes detached from the towing vehicle. Even if you are under 2k pounds, that's a one ton missile on the roadway if it comes loose. If something like that happened, your insurance company would probably not cover you since you are operating illegally. And like previously said, you have to meet the requirements of whatever state or province you are in.

wndshldgoes · 01-13-2018, 08:30 AM

Here is a good resource for what states and countries allow: Towing Laws | BrakeBuddy - Braking systems for motorhomes towing a vehicle

wildtoad · 01-13-2018, 09:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wndshldgoes

Here is a good resource for what states and countries allow: Towing Laws | BrakeBuddy - Braking systems for motorhomes towing a vehicle

My only issue with the referenced link is that it discusses trailers and fifth wheels which, to me, confuses the issue regarding a motorhome pulling a car.

There is always the “by the book” thing to do, then there’s the smart thing to do.

David3811 · 01-13-2018, 09:10 AM

When we bought our first DP I had a few people tell me that I probably wouldn't need a brake assist because the diesel would stop just about anything behind it. When I researched it I found out that it's required in most states, so I got a Blue Ox Patriot system. About two months later, on a two lane road and following an 18 wheeler at what I thought was a safe distance, he slammed on his brakes and stopped almost immediately. I panic stopped the motorhome and ended up within inches of his trailer. The Patriot brake light on the remote control was still on. I don't even want to think about what would've happened if the Toad hadn't had it's own braking system. You don't have to "install" one. The Patriot system, and others like it, just sit on the floor and connect to the brake pedal and are removed when not in use.