Any experience with SMI Stay-IN-Play brake system?

[arthurval]

I am new on this web site and interested in a toad braking system. SMI looks interesting to me, but not much written about it. Anybody using one that could give me their thoughts? Thanks, Art. 2001 Winnebago Journey

[arthurval]

I am new on this web site and interested in a toad braking system. SMI looks interesting to me, but not much written about it. Anybody using one that could give me their thoughts? Thanks, Art. 2001 Winnebago Journey

[CAD-Man]

I have a SMI Stay-N-Play wireless model called the SMI SilentPartner. I love the system. It doesn't get in the way and is out of sight. At first I had some radio control problems. But relocating the two antennae helped solved the problem. The Latch mode works great in the mountain. If you do a search on RV.Net for Toad braking systems, there is a long post about the pros and cons of several brands of toad braking systems.

[Fred B.]

Art,

I bought a used SMI unit & had them convert it to a 4 wire stay-n-play. It really works great, no setup time just plugin & turn on the switch. People are not using some of the brake pedal models because it takes a few minutes to setup. You have to plugin to your coach for signal lites etc. & thats all you have to do except turn on the switch. Installed it a little over a year ago & have only put 8800 miles on it but it really does the job & SMI peole are great to work with.

[jafortune]

I had an SMI PlugANDPlay installed in my PT Cruiser when we purchased our motorhome. This provided satisfactory service for 1 1/2 years. When SMI introduced the Stay-IN-Play I contacted SMI and was able to upgrade to the Stay-IN-Play. This unit has worked very well and is extremely convenient to use. I also have found the folks at SMI great to work with and would not hesitate to purchase one of their products again.

[FloraBama]

Just got back from a coast-to-coast trip towing my GMC Canyan with a SMI Stay n Play. Excellent device! It worked perfectly over the Rockies and I would highly recommend SMI.
As mentioned above, SMI has really good customer service; one technitian even gave me his cell phone number.
The installation will take a little loinger that what is advertised if you do the job yourself. The unit would not fit under the drivers or rear seat so it sits in the back floor when I'm towning and when I get home it pulls out in about 20 seconds.
I like the fact that with the Stay n Play there is NO wiring or modifications to the MH. The receiver is vel-crowed to the dash and plugs into a 12v plug.

[Stan & Mary]

I installed the SMI Stay N Play in our 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan. I love it. Because of a power seat, I do not leave it in, but take it out after each trip. Takes about 45 sec. to put in place and less to remove.
I was not concerned about installation time, just accuarcy, but had no trouble doing so.
Stan & Mary
2003 Georgie Boy Landau 3402 DS
Workhorse Cahsis, 8.1 Chevy eg.,
5 speed Allison tranny

[ISLAPP]

I would first like to welcome Stan and Mary and Arthurval to iRV2. You will find some great people here and helpful responses to your questions. We hope you share your experiences with us as well.
Now for your question, I have the Silent Partner as well and love it. As mentioned, the unit in the car was just a tad to big to fit under my seat, so it sits on the back floor. Easy to take in and out if you need the space for people.
Mike

[arthurval]

I'm the origional poster and wanted to give an update. I did purchase the SMI Stay-in-play. Installed it myself (on & off for 2 days) Ben on 2000mi trip and am very pleased. Thanks to all. Art 2001 Journey

[DriVer]

[Barney B.]

I can't seem to find an SMI dealer in Salt Lake City. If I buy one "mail order", how dificult is it to install -or- where is a good place to have something like that installed.

[ISLAPP]

Barney,
I found buying it direct from SMI was the best price. They then gave me a dealer near to me that I used to do the car part of the instal.
I could have bought it from the dealer also, but it was cheaper to buy from SMI and then just pay the labor at the local dealer.
I did the coach part of the instal cause that wasnt too big of a deal. I didnt want to mess with the wiring in the car part which is alittle more complicated than the coach part.
Mike

[arthurval]

Barney,
My suggestion -- Buy from SMI direct. If you are sort of handy around cars you can certainly install it yourself. SMI staff can talk you thru it. If not ,then most any mechanic can do the job for you. Also,check to see if you have enough space under The drivers seat for the unit. Good luck, Art

[Canuck]

What is the minimum space under the driver's seat that will accommodate the stay n play?
Tx.
Canuck