annbclay
Active Member
Posts: 108 
Likes: 12
1961 Shasta Compact
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Post by annbclay on Jun 30, 2014 18:17:46 GMT -8
I know I know, a Compact is SO light it shouldn't need brakes. However! In order to tow it with my husband's Subaru Crosstrek I need to have brakes on the camper. The Crosstrek is rated to 1500 tow capacity for a trailer that has brakes, my Compact weighs about 1100 loaded At the most. I know that isn't a lot of variance but I feel comfortable with that as it includes everything I will pile into the camper for a trip.
So my question... Where do I go to get brakes put on the Compact? Mechanic, RV DEALER? ... and is it really expensive? Looking for insight and if anyone in the SC/ GA region has a mechanic they would recommend.
thanks
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Post by bigbill on Jun 30, 2014 19:33:26 GMT -8
I like brakes on all trailers especially on ones being pulled with a marginal vehicle. The cost will depend on several things, 1. does the axle have flanges for the backing plates to bolt on or will they have to be welded on 2. the size brakes you purchase. 3. made in America or imported 4. the labor rate at the shop you choose 5. last but not least the type of brake control you buy for your tow vehicle and the cost to install if you can't do it yourself.
These things are so varied that the cost is anybodies guess but probably somewhere between $500 and $1500 dollars. Our local RV center charges $117.00 per hour so they would be on the high end. I would talk to trailer repair shops, spring & alignment shops, your local garage, Trailer hitch installers and RV dealers in your area and get estimates and if they don't do it ask who does sometimes they will guide you to a small unadvertised shop that as a lower labor rate.
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annbclay
Active Member
Posts: 108
Likes: 12
1961 Shasta Compact
Currently Offline
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Post by annbclay on Jul 1, 2014 6:30:06 GMT -8
As always big bill, you are a great help, thanks so much. This helps me know where and how to start. Im also deciding between trading my car up in size (don't want to do) or spending some $$ to make the current situation work. It looks as though, once again, I have a good bit of research to do before a decision. Part of the challenge of owning a vintage camper! Im learning to enjoy the learning curve. I never seem to do anything in life the easy way!
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