Braking system

[mikern]

Is there a weight limit to determine if a braking system is needed in your toad. Very conflicting answers online

Mike

 

[Neal]

My understanding it is a law not a weight limit, i.e. if the toad breaks away will it stop on its own.

 

[Texas Clodhopper]

Regardless, install a braking system with the break-away feature. If it stops you a ¼" away from hitting something, its worth it. I don't have any personal knowledge but I would be concerned if I hit something and I didn't have a braking system, how would my insurance carrier react?
Peace of mind is worth a lot to me.

 

[Rich W.]

I’ve seen a chart with the regs of all the states regarding the towed vehicle weight and braking systems requirements, from no restrictions in some states, to anything over 1500lbs in others. But beyond that the liability and possibly outcomes of not having anything are important to me.

Here’s an example: Towing Laws | Brake Buddy®

 

[DennisT]

Have to agree with the above.

Regardless of whether required or not I’d rather have something in place in case the toad breaks away completely. Better that it slams on the brakes than taking off unguided on its own.

Have braking as well on ours in addition to the break away.

 

[CaptainGizmo]

These guys are all correct. Regardless of what is the “law”, there is NO CHANCE I’d be caught dead towing without an emergency breakaway brake system!!!!

I can’t emphasize this enough after having a half dozen friends experience tow plate failures including one complete breakaway. His TOAD ran into a freeway abutment and, by the grace of GOD, only totaled the car.

My advice is don’t listen to all the “old and wise” characters who’ve been pulling a TOAD with the same towbar and no brake system for a hundred zillion miles. Do the safest thing; for you…and for others!

 

[Rollin Ollen]

Is there a weight limit to determine if a braking system is needed in your toad. Very conflicting answers online

Mike

I agree with everyone else that has posted a reply. On top of the safety of others, having a braking system on your toad will minimize the excessive wear on your coaches brakes. We have been using Brake Buddy and are pleased with it. There a lot of options out there. I
m sure you will find one that you will like.

Darrell