I am looking for opinions on toad brake systems. Searching the threads here has brought up some older info but not much on the newer systems.

Anyone have particular likes and dislikes?

Ease of use for different models?

I use the SMI Air Force One. http://smibrake.com/air-force-one.html

Likewise we have the SMI system and it is very easy to use, and works very well!
We have air brakes, so that made it a little easier and cheaper---- as no auxiliary air supply was required

Bud

Thanks for the responses Corey and Bud. The SMI unit looks like a great system, unfortunately I don't have air brakes. I do like the idea of a permanent install over the portable floor units.

Even though we have air brakes on our bus, we went with a US Gears braking system and like it.

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Thanks for the responses Corey and Bud. The SMI unit looks like a great system, unfortunately I don't have air brakes. I do like the idea of a permanent install over the portable floor units.


Tom & Jillene

Even though I have air brakes, the Air Force One includes its own air pump so no air connection to my RV is required. Just sayin'

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Even though I have air brakes, the Air Force One includes its own air pump so no air connection to my RV is required. Just sayin'

Well, I'll have to do a little more digging on their website. All the info I was finding refered to the system using the motorhome air.

This one Tom http://smibrake.com/stay-in-play-duo.html

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This one Tom http://smibrake.com/stay-in-play-duo.html

Thanks Corey, don't know how I missed that one

Will the SMI system work on a breakaway with air over hydraulic?

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Will the SMI system work on a breakaway with air over hydraulic?

Most definitely the one shown in the link above will. It generates its own vacuum for the toad's braking system.

I use a Roadmaster cylinder that is operated by the air brakes from the Breakaway. We have two vehicles that we can tow and I have both vehicles set up so it is only a mater of moving the cylinder. Works really well, plus I found the cylinder on ebay for under $200.

I'm not cheap, just frugal.

The biggest problem with any braking system that works on enertia is over braking. In the hills out west here there are time when you need both the engine and regular brakes. When I am braking the amount of braking applied in the towd is the same as in the coach.

I agree with your analysis Gary. Proportional is the term that best applies, the more precise the proportional braking is applied, the safer. There are many types of braking systems that are very simple to very complex. The best, are able to monitor braking needs and adjust quickly and efficiently. Some can have issues where the inertia sensors see steep downhill as a need to brake even when the Jake/Exhaust brake is applied. I like the safety factor on the SMI (others may have it too), that keeps toad braking inactive until it sees the actual coach brakes being applied.

The other big difference is the "charging" of the toad's power brake system. Without this, the braking is not working as the factory designed and it has been reported with some toads that the pedal cannot be pushed hard enough to get effective braking without the power booster charged. Frankly, I don't care as my coach weighs in at 50,000lbs, but the lighter the RV/heavier the toad - certainly there is a tipping point. For me it's more of a legal requirement.