Community Forums

tjwolf · 01-17-2008, 01:36 PM

I've looked at M&G and SMI for toad braking systems. Don't even want to try to wedge the cylinder required on the M&G system between the master cylinder and the booster on my Grand Vitara. Many brake lines and a large cross bar in the way.
Is anyone running the SMI Stay-in Play Duo on their gas rig? From their "very limited" web site info, I gather that a 15 amp service line is required running to a compressor/vacuum system mounted in the toad's engine compartment. What is a normal days battery draw and is it enough to require a toad charging system from the motor-home? Does the system function as advertised? I don't see many drawbacks, except possibly an issue with portability of the system between toads. Any ideas?

Tom

tjwolf · 01-17-2008, 01:36 PM

I've looked at M&G and SMI for toad braking systems. Don't even want to try to wedge the cylinder required on the M&G system between the master cylinder and the booster on my Grand Vitara. Many brake lines and a large cross bar in the way.
Is anyone running the SMI Stay-in Play Duo on their gas rig? From their "very limited" web site info, I gather that a 15 amp service line is required running to a compressor/vacuum system mounted in the toad's engine compartment. What is a normal days battery draw and is it enough to require a toad charging system from the motor-home? Does the system function as advertised? I don't see many drawbacks, except possibly an issue with portability of the system between toads. Any ideas?

Tom

Dagwood · 01-17-2008, 02:57 PM

Tom my son has a similar setup with US Gear and after a four day trip his battery was still ok. It was mostley interstate but more stops in city driving could have made a difference. I am inherating his toad and plan on staying with the six pin connector.
James

Pusherman · 01-17-2008, 02:57 PM

I don't have a SMI system, but have a 'box' system which you place on the floor and plug into the cigarette lighter to power. I would assume the power consumption is similar between the two systems, as mine also has a compressor to pump up.

I can drive all day with no problem drawing the toad battery down. Still starts at the end of the day (which I do at the end of every towing day).

Tom and Patty · 01-17-2008, 07:40 PM

Tom,

We have the SMI Silent Partner in our PT. We purchased SMI for the exact same reason you are looking at it. No way was M&G going to fit in the PT's engine compartment.

We have taken trips back to St. Louis and never had a battery problem. Four days of pulling and I think I started the PT once. I have not, nor will I run a charging wire.

IIRC SMI supplies the wire for the power to the vacuum pump. It is a fairly straight forward installation.

WE have pulled our PT close to 2K miles and it works as advertised. I certainly would buy it again.