brake systems for toad

[dennyida]

Just wanted to get some views on brake systems for toads. We have a 2012 Chevy Equinox all wheel drive that we plan to set up to tow 4 down. WE have looked at all the equipment for our set up , but have not decided on the brake system. We are now looking at the Blue OX Patriot system. It looks to be a good system set up and less invasive to the car systems. WE would like any info and suggestions on brake systems that you good people have for us. Thank you, Denny and my wee blonde Ida

[dennyida]

I would like to thank everyone for giving my wife and I suggestions on a brake system for our toad. (2012 equinox) After looking at cost, installation and least invasive work on the toad we decided on Blue Ox base plate, Ready Brute elite tow bar with ready brake and accessories. If any one has had an issue with this set up please feel free to let us know. We will be towing with a 2004 Granite Ridge with the E450 chassis. Thank you, Denny and my wee blonde Ida

[derh2o]

We have an Invisibrake from Roadmaster. I did not do much research, but knew I did not want a "brake in a box". One reason for choosing the Invisibrake is that Roadmaster's headquarters is about 10 miles away. With the Invisibrake, there is nothing to do--connect your toad and go. the downside is that it is a permanent installation, so if you plan to change toads soon, you will have the expense of installing another one whereas with the "brake in a box", you simply move it to your new toad.

[navegator]

Check out the brake systems manufactured by SMI

www.smibrake.com

I have used the unit for 13 years and have never had a problem.

navegator

[gmctoyman]

I have owned and USED motorhomes since 1977. Years ago I bought a Brake Buddy, still have it and use it constantly. I don't remember how many years I've had it - lots. I don't remember how many vehicles I've used it in - lots. Don't remember how many motorhomes I've used it with - lots. It has been back to the factory several times, never broken, just inspect and repair as necessary. The only problem I've EVER had was to remember to pump down the power brakes - if I forget, it reminds me automatically at the first stop.

You decide.

[Teacher_s_Pet]

Replaced our BrakeBuddy that had to go back to the factory for yearly rebuilds after 9 years with a Patriot two years ago. Much happier with the setup and operation. Plus it hasn't broke a towbar (BB x2) or burned up a set of brakes (BB one set I'm sure of) yet.

[Horizon170]

Brake Buddy for me. I can use it on many different vehicles.

[EsoxLucius]

The Blue Ox Aladdin Tow bar with the AutoStop is another surge brake option that is reasonably priced.

[Bumpyroad]

rockhillmanor wrote:

My first Toad, I bought the Brake Buddy. After time it gets REAL REAL old kneeing down on the ground to shove that brake buddy in, clamp it to the brake and try to adjust the seat so it works, hook up the wires,test the air 3 times yada yada yada. And then reverse the process.

I used a brake buddy for about 17 years and never had such issues. Of course I pretty much used it going point to point, didn't unhook most nights enroute. don't need it now that I have a TT however.

Oh yes, one advantage, I used mine on about 4-5 different toads.

bumpy

[Dakzuki]

I have an RVibrake 2. Easy to install, compact and not permanent.

LINK

[pauldub]

I use a Ready Brake. It's probably the least expensive and their is a minimum amount of claptrap to deal with.

[Raymon]

ronfisherman wrote:
Have you looked at the Ready Brute Elite tow bar and brake system. I use it on my Chevy Captiva, similar vehicle to the Equinox. No electronic to worry about.

X2 Very simple operation and an easily self install. Good value and customer service.

[rockhillmanor]

I'll just add that since you are just starting out get a brake assist that is automatic/built-in to the tow bar etc.

My first Toad, I bought the Brake Buddy. After time it gets REAL REAL old kneeing down on the ground to shove that brake buddy in, clamp it to the brake and try to adjust the seat so it works, hook up the wires,test the air 3 times yada yada yada. And then reverse the process.

All the while I am on my knees putting the BB into my Toad, my neighboring camper hooked up their Toad, flipped a switch and off they went.

If you have back problems do yourself a favor and buy one of the ones mentioned above! :W

[Kit_Carson]

I use the Blue Ox Patriot and have had no problems with it. I think it is a good unit.

[1nshort]

I have been using the Unified Brake by US Gear for 6 years now. Just recently bought a new MH and just had to buy the MH module to get up and running. Love the system. Easy hookup (plug in the cables and go). Its TOAD stuff is all on the front firewall under the carpeting wwith the module under the dash...don't even notice it is there.