After Many Cancelations...

[escape artist]

Originally Posted by Donna D.

Okay, so there's two of us... but, why(?) do we have trailer brakes if we expect our tugs to slow us down... no matter the gears in the pumpkin?

I'm lost in this discussion, and I'm looking to buy a new truck... and it will come with a "mortgage" OMG.

I'm swear moving to the FLATS

Hi: Donna D... Is that a six speed "Mortgage"?
Are you going to get the 50/50 "Warranty" too? If it breaks in half...you own both pieces!!! Alf
escape artist N.S. of Lake Erie
Ft.Myers Beach Florida for now

[Dave&Kathie]

Originally Posted by Donna D.

That does it! I'm only going to drive where it's FLAT.

Donna,

You'll never get out of the Willamette Valley!

Kathie

[Brian B-P]

Originally Posted by Donna D.

... but, why(?) do we have trailer brakes if we expect our tugs to slow us down...

In case that was a serious question...
The reason for engine braking down grades:

• brakes are for slowing down (they absorb and then dissipate the kinetic energy of the moving vehicle), but
• brakes can't absorb and dissipate the energy of being continually applied for a long period without getting too hot (the potential energy of a significant climb is much more than the kinetic energy of moving at highway speed)

The reason why the tug braking (by engine or brakes) is not enough: engine braking is enough for the force required to hold back the rig coasting down a hill, but that force is much less than the force required to decelerate the rig at even a moderate braking level. Note:

• The tug may not be able to exert this higher required braking force by itself.
• Pushing back on the trailer at the ball is an unstable way to decelerate it.

[MarksAlot]

It all works together as a team (engine, transmission, TV/trailer brakes, tires, steering) with the driver orchestrating the effort. Your results may vary.