Community Forums

Revconguy · 01-23-2022, 08:27 AM

Anybody use the Blue Ox Patriot III braking system? Does it work well for you? My motorhome is already plumbed for with a brake air port so I wanted a Air Force One for my motorhome/toad but can't find an installer nearby here in North Alabama to install one on my toad. Looking at portable braking systems, it looks like the Blue Ox Patriot III requires the least installation wiring of the ones I looked at so I am leaning toward getting one of those. The only rumor I've heard about the Blue Ox system is that it may be a little slow to engage. Other than that, everything has been positive. Thoughts?

bumbie · 01-23-2022, 11:44 AM

Watching this thread and where it goes. I'm trying to decide between the Patriot 3 and RVIBrake 3 without the tablet.

Revconguy · 01-23-2022, 02:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bumbie

Watching this thread and where it goes. I'm trying to decide between the Patriot 3 and RVIBrake 3 without the tablet.

I hadn't investigated the RVIBrake 3 until you mentioned it. Looks very interesting. They have a video at https://rvibrake.com/blogs/news/air-...raking-systems where they discuss the benefits of the air-actuated systems verses the Blue-Ox all electric system. I really like the instantaneous actuation of the RVIBrake system. You may have changed my thoughts about which system to get. Thanks!!

RangerZ · 01-23-2022, 08:39 PM

I am using the patriot 3. It works well. I am using it on a full size pick up. Seems to do the job well and yes it is a easy install and easily moved to another vehicle. It’s pricey though. I think RVI is probably a better system but since I wasn’t running a charge wire to the toad I didn’t like the 8 amp draw compared to the 1/2 amp on the blue ox when not braking and 1.5 amp when braking. If I was doing it again I’d definitely try the RVI

Revconguy · 01-24-2022, 02:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RangerZ

I am using the patriot 3. It works well. I am using it on a full size pick up. Seems to do the job well and yes it is a easy install and easily moved to another vehicle. It’s pricey though. I think RVI is probably a better system but since I wasn’t running a charge wire to the toad I didn’t like the 8 amp draw compared to the 1/2 amp on the blue ox when not braking and 1.5 amp when braking. If I was doing it again I’d definitely try the RVI

Thanks.. Do you notice any activation delay with the Patriot 3 system? I watched a activation demo between the RVI system and the Blue Ox system and the Blue Ox system seems to activate quite slowly.

RangerZ · 01-24-2022, 05:04 AM

Yes I notice the slow activation. I’d like to know if the RVI is smooth under normal braking or if it’s jerky as in doing hard application all the time? That I don’t know. The patriot is a very smooth application but yes “to me” it is a little slow. I haven’t had a “slam on the brake moment” yet but I’ve done some harder braking on purpose to see the effects.

Revconguy · 01-24-2022, 07:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RangerZ

Yes I notice the slow activation. I’d like to know if the RVI is smooth under normal braking or if it’s jerky as in doing hard application all the time? That I don’t know. The patriot is a very smooth application but yes “to me” it is a little slow. I haven’t had a “slam on the brake moment” yet but I’ve done some harder braking on purpose to see the effects.

As for smoothness, the RVI system is supposed to be proportional (i.e. smooth). I maybe overthinking it but I'm really concerned about the activation delay that I've read about with the Blue Ox system. The difference to me is that the Blue Ox system's power requirements are low enough that I probably won't have to add a charging line between my coach and toad. The RVI system requires a higher amperage and will likely require a charge line.

RangerZ · 01-24-2022, 09:09 AM

If you don’t get the control monitor with the RVI do they still have a adjustment available? I adjust the blue ox with the controller that is in the coach. Honestly as a user of the blue ox I really don’t like the delay. It hasn’t caused me any problems but as we know in a emergency situation even 1 second is a big difference. You have a large coach so definitely wouldn’t be effected as much. I have a small coach with a large toad. I’m well within my weight capacities but for me under heavy braking I would definitely know my toad is there. Also the RVI has a much smaller profile. They install just about the same. It would be nice if you could try these things before hand but that’s not really possible unfortunately. I was in a bit of a hurry when I needed mine and was able to get the blue ox in stock at a dealer which played a factor in my decision and also not having to run the charge line. If you get the RVI I would be interested in hearing your thoughts on it after you use it. I’m not beyond switching over at some point if it’s better and safer system

STRich · 01-24-2022, 10:02 AM

As an FYI, the Blue Ox Patriots are on back order. I called the plant and the comment was that the chip shortage is causing major delays. If you need it soon an RVI or a Brake Buddy are your choices.

bumbie · 02-05-2022, 11:05 AM

I was able to find a 'used' RVi3 with tablet for about 1/3 the cost of a new unit. The case, tablet and hub look in good shape. I contacted RVi and sent everything to them for a function check including condition of batteries in tablet/hub, which they will do at no charge. The unit is several years old (approx 4), so it is out of warranty. They will advise if anything needs replacing and the cost. The firmware update will be free of charge and once done I plan on adding the wireless breakaway.