Towing a 2012 Jeep gran Cherokee

[Jack Durney]

My question is can you tow this Jeep with just A tow bar and not use a in car brake system . When I worked I towed a 5000 # cable trailer and it had no break system just my F550 bucket truck . I will be tow with a 2008 Georgetown XL 378

[ependydad]

What are the laws where you're at? Are brakes required based on its weight?

[Jack Durney]

I am just looking into it I will not be do this till the spring .I was told it was not a law ( New Jersey) but it was Recommend !!! I spoke with someone last week in Lake Geo. and he tow with no brake he had NY tags

[kenandterry]

Here's a link for towing laws throughout North America

Towing Laws | BrakeBuddy - Braking systems for motorhomes towing a vehicle

Another thing to consider..............the insurance companies are going to be very interested in your rigging IF you ever have a claim........anything they can do to prevent paying out.

What's the risk worth to you if you don't purchase a braking system for your toad?

Just sayin'

[CSMRetired]

Here is aother site that specifies between trailers and towed vehicles. It appears New Jersey does specify brakes for a towed vehicle. You will find though there are many many states that don't require it.
most have said, it is a 'good idea'

Towing World Official Website

[hunt247]

In my opinion, the auxiliary brake system should be mandatory. You need to consider every state that you will drive through, not just your home state. Plus, why put all the burden on the Motorhome brakes especially on steep declines? This will only accerlate your brake wear. Share the load with your toad and travel safely.

[fbconsults]

Jack, I have a 2011 378, and I tow a 2011 Ford Escape. I just started towing it and installed an Invisibrake. The tow brackets (I already had a Blue Ox towbar), wiring harness and Invisibrake was $2350.00, installed including tax.

Prior to this, my toad was a 2002 Chevy Tracker, which only weighed about 2800 lbs, and I did not have auxiliary braking. With the Escape, at 3400 lbs,I cannot tell much or any difference in the braking from the Tracker with no brakes.

I will say, the Ford MH chassis brakes are somewhat lacking in my opinion. You have to apply the brakes considerably harder than in my previous Workhorse chassis. Anyway, I would definitely recommend the brakes on your jeep.

Happy Trails, Forrest