Are Supplemental Braking Systems Required when Flat Towing a Vehicle Behind an RV

Updated 05/02/2016 | Published 04/29/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(57)

$1930.00

Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes - Proportional

(791)

$1245.50

Question:

With the blue ox tow bar, do I need to have brake controlled system? According to high way safety. If needed which one you recommend. Thanks.

asked by: Andy P

Helpful Expert Reply:

Most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. One of the preferred systems for our installers and what I recommend is the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO proportional system, # SM99251. It will apply the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

To determine if this or other supplemental braking systems will work I would need to know the year, make, and model of the vehicle you will be towing behind the RV. I have included links to a video on the braking system listed above as well as a help article on supplemental braking systems for you.

expert reply by: Michael H