towing

Seems like we are all guessing about if the U-Haul pickup trucks have a 7-pin Bargman connector and an electric brake controller.  A call to your local U-Haul dealer should give you the answers.

CharlieM is absolutely right about the trailer brake requirements in Michigan.  However, the law is even more stringent it you look at the exception I have pasted below.  And, without electric brakes, don't even think about taking your pod to your neighboring state of Wisconsin.

These comments are offered as constructive, and I hope you accept them as such. 

MICHIGAN

Charlie, I was towing when I lived in Michigan and the common understanding there was that an electric brake controller was acceptable because it is applied by the operator pressing the brake pedal, the same as the vehicle's brakes are applied by the operator when he or she depresses the brake pedal.  It is also my understanding that if you tow a trailer through a state that has more stringent trailer brake requirements, you are bound by them as long as you are within that state.  Here is a link to the requirements in every state.

http://www.boatwheels.biz/brakelaws.pdf

Bob

Originally posted by wingnut2312 Well we were just approved today for our rpod 182G! You are both correct on the brakes. You are responsible to know and abide by the state you are in's laws and regs. MI does require, so I'll have to check on the uhaul. Thank you all for the info. It helps to have a place to go when you are uninformed.

Originally posted by wingnut2312 So you've missed the section on we're going to rent a vehicle instead of using the Jeep? I stated that I believe the Jeep isn't going to work and we will be looking for a proper TV. I also stated that it's not worth risking it with the kids. The brake controller would not be necessary when towing it with a full size F-150 is what the dealer said. In the future, please read the entire thread before questioning a persons intelligence. It's probably easier to realize that there is a lot of bad informationn out there clouding up the good. Asking questions is the way people wade through the b.s. and make the best decision. Thanks for the help everyone!

  I have read the entire thread, but did not realize it was a done deal that you will only pull the pod with an F-150, and when you said the dealer said brakes weren't necessary you didn't indicate which dealer or on what. 

  An F-150 vs a Wrangler makes a difference regarding brakes, but I think most people would still recommend a brake controller, even with an F-150, regardless of the legal requirement.

  Also, I did not question anyone's intelligence.  You can have an IQ of 187 and still not know the difference between towing capacity and tongue weight.  These are very basic and important concepts to understand when choosing a trailer and tow vehicle combination.  I'm sure you understand them now, but first indications were that maybe you didn't.  I went on to infer that you are somewhat new to towing in general. 

  Sorry if I offended.  Congrats on the 182G if you go through with it.

  TT

Originally posted by Sleepless don't even think about taking your pod to your neighboring state of Wisconsin.

What are those rules?