Using RV Brakes manually. Good idea or not??

[Cardinal camper]

I was told that it was good idea to "feather" trailer brakes manually when going down steep grade to save tv brakes. Good idea or not!!! Thanks for response!!!

[Skyliner]

I don't and wouldn't recommend it. The only time I use manual brakes is to set the brake controller and to test the brakes to ensure they work and the plug is seated correctly.

You want your brakes to get worked equally. If you overwork your rear brakes, they may overheat prematurely and not be there for your on a downhill when you really need them.

[Mr Havercamp]

Only if you like changing brake shoes.

Your TV brakes have much more lining material and on todays vehicles who knows how much more stopping power. Factory Dexter brake shoes only have 5/32" of lining. They are meant to be "supplemental" and not the primary braking system.

Wheover told you that is a dumas.

[ependydad]

Personally, I use the engine to slow me down when coming down mountains. I rarely use the brakes.

[Joe_GA]

Originally Posted by ependydad

Personally, I use the engine to slow me down when coming down mountains. I rarely use the brakes.

X2 plus I have an exhaust brake and use. Brakes don't get much use.

[PenJoe]

I would agree with most of the posts. However, you may want to use them in a sway event to pull the trailer back. I have only had to do that once on the highway in the past 48 years, but it did save the day when we were broadsided by a rouge gust of strong wind. We did it one other time coming down a steep windy muddy road.

[lbrjet]

Not a good idea. Let the transmission downshift so your truck will do the work.


2010 F250 5.4L 3.73
2011 Flagstaff 831FKBSS
Equal-i-zer 4pt 12K

[mike.t]

During sever trailer sway OK. Remember your asking those little brakes on that trailer to also slow down your TV.

[Filterman]

Originally Posted by Cardinal camper

I was told that it was good idea to "feather" trailer brakes manually when going down steep grade to save tv brakes. Good idea or not!!! Thanks for response!!!

Bad idea for all the reasons mentioned!

[Filterman]

Originally Posted by ependydad

Personally, I use the engine to slow me down when coming down mountains. I rarely use the brakes.

X2 We pull with gas so no engine brake but the Ford 6 spd with the max tow transmission avoids much use of brakes.

[Big Bill]

"featherng" the brakes may cause them to overheat and fade, not to good if you realy need them. I would say to test them before you get on a grade to make sure they are working.

[Myrle]

Originally Posted by ependydad

Personally, I use the engine to slow me down when coming down mountains. I rarely use the brakes.

Same here rarely use brakes unless extremely steep and then sparingly.