Can RoadMaster Tow Dolly with Electric Brakes Be Backed Up in Reverse?

Updated 01/25/2013 | Published 01/23/2013

Question:

If I find myself in a jam in traffic and I have to back up say several feet, will the RM-2000 allow me to do this with electric brakes?

asked by: Clif A

Expert Reply:

The electric brakes on the RoadMaster Tow Dolly, part # RM-2050-1, only engage when you activate the brakes on your tow vehicle. Your tow vehicle brakes send a braking signal to the (required) brake controller which in turn tells the electric brakes on the towing dolly (through the required wiring harness) to activate.

Operating your tow vehicle and the tow dolly in reverse gear for maneuvering purposes is not a problem; the brakes on the dolly will not engage unless told to do so by the brake controller (unlike with a surge or hydraulic type brake coupler).

Among the most popular and easiest-to-use proportional brake controllers is the Tekonsha P2, part # 90885. I have included a video showing a typical installation. This device sends a braking signal to the dolly in proportion to the braking level in your tow vehicle. We offer a variety of vehicle-specific wiring harnesses to connect your tow vehicle to the dolly wiring for activation of its brakes and of its tail, turn and brake lights. If you wish to provide specifics about your tow vehicle we can recommend the appropriate harness to connect it to the 6-way round connector on the dolly. The dolly is designed for 2-inch hitch balls.

Instructions for the dolly are included along with a helpful article about brake controllers.

expert reply by: Adam R