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CK_BK's avatar
CK_BK
Explorer
Feb 28, 2014

Proportional or full braking (Brake Buddy)

Hi all,

Got a new motor home so I decided to get a new BrakeBuddy. The one I have is the original in the squarish metal box.

I'm undecided if I should get the new proportional braking unit or go with the updated full braking system. There is a few hundred $$ difference. All comments are welcome.

Thanks....
  • DouglasC wrote:
    I have a "Classic" Brake Buddy which I purchased in 1998. Still works fine so I see no need to "upgrade". Like "Bumpy", I set mine so that it only comes on under moderately severe braking.


    I think this is kind of the same as proportional braking but you don't get graduating response like proportional braking. I watch when mine actuates from in the MH, and notice when set to normal, light braking doesn't engage the unit. Mod braking I see the light come on, but the don't feel toad pull. Under heavy braking, I can feel the toad pulling. Proportional braking is nice in that it only sends the toad a little at a time until you really hit the brakes.

    I like this in the mountains. 40K combined is a lot of momentum to generate, so small input goes a long way in keeping the brakes cool. Non mountain driving I would think non proportional would work just fine.

    Bill
  • I have a "Classic" Brake Buddy which I purchased in 1998. Still works fine so I see no need to "upgrade". Like "Bumpy", I set mine so that it only comes on under moderately severe braking.
  • CK&BK wrote:
    Hi all,

    Got a new motor home so I decided to get a new BrakeBuddy. The one I have is the original in the squarish metal box.

    I'm undecided if I should get the new proportional braking unit or go with the updated full braking system. There is a few hundred $$ difference. All comments are welcome.

    Thanks....


    I used the old metal box one, why do you want to change? I set mine so that it only came on under moderately severe braking. didn't want the toad stopping the motorhome. have no use/need for "proportional" myself. since I went to a TT have no use for it anymore.
    bumpy
  • Mechanical engineer DH considered all factors and just decided to order the Blue Ox with proportional braking.
  • I believe the proportional units are more money. I bought a Roadmaster Even Brake and I am pretty happy with the performance. I have a box so I can switch it between cars. I think full braking would be a bit harsh, but I don't know that for a fact.

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