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Old 02-18-2009, 09:47 PM   #1 (permalink)
 
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Supplemental brakes and break away

Just what is the deal with driving in different states? I can't seem to find consistancy on the internet as to what are the state requirements. i thought that rules of licensing state apply. What about break away requirements?

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Old 02-19-2009, 09:57 AM   #2 (permalink)
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I believe that RVer's visiting or traveling through a state with more stringent laws than the state the vehicle is registered in are exempt from that states requirements. That said, having a breakaway breaking system on your towd just makes good sense.

They are not required in Oregon, but they are in California; so I am installing a break away breaking system, probably Add-a Brake.

~$900 from Camping World
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Old 02-19-2009, 12:10 PM   #3 (permalink)
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i've been looking into the laws too, and it seems that many states require a breakaway system, regardless of what your home state's laws may be.

that said, i've been looking at the ready brake ReadyBrake Supplemental Brake System for Towed Vehicles - Night Shift Auto for $336.25 & their readystop breakaway RV Towing Accessories - Night Shift Auto for an extra $100. it's the least expensive i can find, and from what most folks on this forum are saying, having the brake is for peace of mind more than actual use since the smart is so light.
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Old 02-19-2009, 12:34 PM   #4 (permalink)
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Wow!! Good find Bumbee!! That's going to make me re-think Camping World!!
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Old 02-19-2009, 02:58 PM   #5 (permalink)
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Dunerunner View Post
Wow!! Good find Bumbee!! That's going to make me re-think Camping World!!
thank you. what i really like about the system is how it works... inertia. a simple mechanical design; doesn't drain the towd's battery; don't have to set up a clunky box in the towd. i'm surprised no one found it before me!
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Old 02-24-2009, 07:51 PM   #6 (permalink)
 
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I did. I put mine on in November. Works great.
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Old 02-24-2009, 08:26 PM   #7 (permalink)
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Pics?
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Old 04-06-2009, 05:25 PM   #8 (permalink)
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As the manufacturer of the Smart Trailer USA, we've researched the brake laws, as best we could, and came to the decision that we would include electric brakes on our trailers regardless of the laws. That way our customers will be safe, covered, protected, whatever the law may say.

And, yes, we decided to eat the cost, something we are proud of.

If you want surge brakes (hydraulic), we offer those as an option.

Safe RV'ing to all.
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Old 04-06-2009, 06:27 PM   #9 (permalink)
 
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Dunerunner View Post
...They are not required in Oregon, but they are in California...
Not according to towingworld.com. The following link states with regard to "Brake Laws Towed Cars" in California:

"Brakes must be sufficient to stop within a specified distance according to weight, at 20 mph."

See their chart of Towing Laws Listed By State here:

http://www.towingworld.com/articles/TowingLaws.htm

Last edited by bcope01; 04-06-2009 at 06:41 PM.
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