Brake system for towed vehicle

[barbill69]

We are a going to take our first trip in our new to us, used pusher motorhome with a towed Saturn VUE. I'm debating if a braking system is needed for my type motorhome, and what brand/type unit is best?

[rvvagabonds]

I think you'll find that not only is a brake system required but it'll also save your motorhome brakes from over heating in case of a sudden stop. My brake system operates off the air brake system of my motorhome however they do have ones such as brake buddy that operate by electronic signals the choice is up to you. I would spend sometime doing research as to which is best for you.

[whodo]

It's not a matter if a braking system is required or not.
Think of it as insurance, what happens if for some reason the tow bar comes loose, breaks, base plate comes loose, the jerk that pulls out in front of you and stops to make a left turn, the icy patch of road in a blind turn and the toad decides to do its own thing, etc, etc. Just think about all the what "ifs", that could possibly happen.
A toad braking system is there in case any of the what "ifs" happen. The break away will activate the toad braking system and stop the toad from taking a journey of its own if it comes loose.
I know things like that only happen to 'the other guy'; well who is 'the other guy'?
If you read all the different RV forums, you will see at least 1 posting a week from 'the other guy'. Most rave about how the brake system saved the day, then there is the occasional few that admit they "THOUGHT", they didn't need a brake system, but now wish they had installed one.

[gramps]

We have the SMI braking system in our Vue. It works with the flip of a switch, no parts to remove from the car.

[teofff]

Some states require a supplemental braking system! Plus, as others have stated, it is a big safety issue. After researching many of the available systems, I found each has a loyal following....I ended up buying the
Tow-V-Aire system fromthe mfg. in Florida. Had it professionally installed, but easy to put in and out of the toad.

[barbill69]

Thanks everyone for all the good insight

[onthroad]

M & G system is great for a diesel pusher with air brakes, the toad uses your air brake system with no hesitation or delay. It takes us (2) minutes to hook up and be on the road. Check it out:

http://www.m-gengineering.com/index.html

Good luck & happy Rving!

Larry

[bushman512003]

I would get a system as others have said for safety and pease of mind also.Your car is heavy and if it gets off for what ever reason You want the breaks to come on and stop it at once.I have a blue ox system as in tow bar stays on the house but a break buddy for stopping I went with that system because all the car has when not in use is a little switch showing and nothing hanging on the front of the car..Bushman:D

[barbill69]

M & G system is great for a diesel pusher with air brakes, the toad uses your air brake system with no hesitation or delay. It takes us (2) minutes to hook up and be on the road. Check it out:

http://www.m-gengineering.com/index.html

Good luck & happy Rving!

Larry

This sounds very good. Thanks

[bounderman]

I started with the "EASY "in and out systems and lasted about two trips .What a pain in the ### !! Had a Stay and Play by SMI . installed at a Bounder Rally. Plug in the rear cable the front Brake away, and turn it on. It only activates when it detects the coach Brake lites and detects deceleration. i am really happy with it It also has a monitor in coach the sees the toad brake lites.That way I know when it activates

ken
1994 Bounder 36 j DP
Cummins 5.9 190 hp (before banks)
Toad 1994 Honda crv