Community Forums

Ted Lambert · 03-11-2016, 12:20 PM

I recently bought a brake buddy and it has two settings one is (Proportional)
I don't have it in front of me but I believe it might be (Direct or something of that nature)
I was wondering what setting most people run? I am not talking about air pressure for the weight of the vehicle towed.

I'm talking just about the type of application you are able to set.

I understand the two terms and Proportional Braking is where I would like to set it. But I have a concern about wearing the brakes on the toad on long down hill grades.

I would like to know what others are doing.

BFlinn181 · 03-11-2016, 07:39 PM

I put my Brake Buddy on the floor well of the passenger seat and took it for a drive. I was able to pick a sensitivity level that has served us well for 1,000's of miles. Give it a try, you might be able to decide what settings are best for your vehicle. By decreasing the sensitivity, you shouldn't have problems with the brakes being applied too long going down a grade, unless you're doing the same in the RV.

**NLOVNIT** · 03-11-2016, 09:01 PM

I'm not familiar with the Triple E line of motorhomes, but if yours has an engine brake, that's what we use on downgrades to save on use of brakes. We also have a Brake Buddy & adjust the proportional setting number based on the terrain on which we're driving.

Lori-

JRPA · 03-12-2016, 12:10 PM

I have a different supplemental brake system, so I don't know the answer either, but I would think the proportional setting would be my preference, as the Full Braking setting would definitely put more wear on the toads break system.

I posted below what it says on the Break Buddy web site, but I didn't see any reference as to when to use which setting. Generally, I think the toads are such a minimal amount of weight that the aux breaking is almost a non factor, but its the law. I would use proportional setting unless possibly when going down a steep grade and the engine brake wasnt able to keep me at a comfortable speed.

from: BRAKE BUDDY WEB SITE:

The only portable auxiliary braking system that allows you to choose between Full and Proportional braking technology at the touch of a button.

Full Braking:removes the entire weight of the towed vehicle when stopping

Proportional Braking: mirrors the braking action of the motorhome

BFlinn181 · 03-12-2016, 12:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JRPA

...Generally, I think the toads are such a minimal amount of weight that the aux breaking is almost a non factor, but its the law. I would use proportional setting unless possibly when going down a steep grade and the engine brake wasn't able to keep me at a comfortable speed...

I suggest you try the following: Go to a large open space, like a parking lot, and release the brakes in your auto. Push it until you have it going walking speed. Then run around to the front and try to stop it.

You'll discover the effort far more than you thought. It's not only the legal requirement (law), but a law of physics.

Floridakamper · 03-12-2016, 01:16 PM

I think the proportional brake systems are more expensive and a Brake Buddy with a proportional option is a recent (last few years) addition to their braking systems. Do a little research or call them. They're nice folks. I've used a Brake Buddy for a dozen years and have received support both paid and goodwill. The more I've learned about how the Brake Buddy works the less issues I've had with it.

Ted Lambert · 03-12-2016, 04:53 PM

Thanks for the replies!
I am going to take everybody's advice into consideration.
And I do believe the proportional setting is going to be the best.

I had contacted Buddy and asked the question about which setting was best for what condition. I never got a reply.

Yes I do believe the Proportional one is newer. But very expensive $1800 Canadian. But worth the extra margin of safety.

Brake Buddy did promptly replace the wrong break away cable that was in the box by mistake.

Weather is getting warmer and we are itchy to get going.
Thank You

KenNJ · 03-21-2016, 06:56 PM

Just purchased our brake buddy vantage and will use the proportional setting for sure. I am going to start half way and go from there. Our first long trip starts Friday so we will see. Going from New Jersey to Tennessee and then on to Louisiana I am confident I will end up with something around 5 or maybe less. I agree with the other posters in that it should not be needed that often. These systems are most important in sudden stop situations. That is when you need the breaking to work and work well. The rest of the time I think the device is just there ready to act when needed. Time will tell 🙂

Sent from my iPad using iRV2 - RV Forum