OP here....Thanks guys.
To set things straight, I've been driving and towing vehicles for over fifty years.(without incident) My dw and I traveled full time for three years towing a 35 foot fiver.
I have always been over cautious when it comes to safety. Both my boat trailers were ordered with surge brakes even though the weights were much below the required level here in Texas.
Yes, we are looking to purchase a class a mh, and we'll have a toad, at some point. And yes, I will have a braking system for the toad.
My original question came to mind when I saw several dp's towing toads as small as the "Smart" cars....not much larger than a golf cart. The tow bars and break-away cables were in place, but I just wondered if they all went the extra mile for the complete setup.
Also, I've seen our neighbors from south of the border driving and towing a vehicle, mostly with others in a caravan, headed back home traveling down I-59. I seriously doubt they had the complete set up.
So, my question was in general, and I don't need to "sacrifice safety for a few bucks." I have plenty of both.
Happy travels to you all....