Re: [VAC] Bubble update

[wescott50@xxxxxxxxx (Bill Scott)]

Hello Ken and Molly with your 57 Bubble.
Your Bubble probably weighs under 2000 lbs.  Bambi's weigh 1875 lbs dry.
and they have electric brakes.  Many states draw the line for brakes at
1500 lbs.   Your mid fifties Bubble probably had hydraulic brakes.  Most
owners since then, have converted to electric, because modern tow
vehicles just are not compatible with hydraulic brakes.  Your Bubble may
even be lighter, with no bath room or toilet.  I have not heard of a
state that allows up to 3000 lbs with out brakes.  What State do you
reside??     I strongly recommend you go to electric brakes, and
breakaway switch.   The problem with breaking away is this:  the
constant push and pull on the hitch ball causes such stress that the
metal will fatigue over many miles and with certain high loads,
eventually the hitch ball will snap at its weak point.  Your next line
of defense is two strong chains crossed (X) so as to support the hitch
coupler, so you can come to a slow and steady stop.  The breakaway
switch is your final safety check.  If the safety chains break, and the
breakaway switch is activated, the trailer will stop  in a fairly even
line behind you, rather than rolling into oncoming traffic, or into
parked cars, or over a cliff.   The reasoning is good and is supported
at each failure.   Without brakes, you and your Bubble will be OK, out
in rural situations, with little traffic and low speeds. (probably
breaking some laws)  In town, with traffic, your first panic stop, you
will probably rear end the person in front of you.  The insurance
company will probably not cover you because you had no brakes.   I
strongly recommend getting some brakes, new safety chains, new ball, and
a breakaway switch.  Otherwise, you are going to be out there, alone,
and unsupported.

Bill Scott
61 Bambi
66 Tradewind LY