Gary, I would send you all the good luck I can muster, I think if you check the manufacturer will state it is mandatory to have brakes on a trailer over 2000# but if your boat/trailer/equipment in and on the trailer weigh more than 2400# - Be Careful. Picture this - your vehicle is rated to tow 2400# (no matter brakes - you have them) You come down a steep hill with a stop at the bottom, run the stop wipe out a car (I hope this does not happen!!) the "suits" for the car you hit will note the vehicle was being operated beyond manufacturers recommended ratings and they 'go to towm' at your expense. 1.We want everyone to be safe, 2.We don't want the "suits" to take you to the cleaners. I would weigh your boat and trailer in the configuration you are most likely to be towing it over the road for a trip. Then I would tell some guy on a web- list to 'buzz off'' (me) Good Luck, Take Care, Motor Safe. Gary O. M-17, (lightish) Toyota Taco -rated between 3500-5000#s towing weight. **************************************Check out AOL's list of 2007's hottest products. (http://money.aol.com/special/hot-products-2007?NCID=aoltop00030000000001)