Supplemental Brake System

Towed Vehicle Supplemental Brakes, also known as auxiliary brakes, are an additional braking system installed in a towed vehicle or a "dinghy" vehicle. This system is designed to assist the brakes of the towing vehicle, typically a motorhome or truck. The primary aim of towed vehicle supplemental brakes is to provide an extra level of safety and control when towing a vehicle.

The system works by applying the brakes of the towed vehicle simultaneously as the brakes of the towing vehicle are applied. This efficient braking process is often achieved through pneumatic, hydraulic or electric signals sent from the towing vehicle to the towed vehicle. Some advanced systems also have a breakaway safety feature that will automatically apply the toad's brakes if it detaches from the towing vehicle, providing an additional layer of security.

The use of a supplemental braking system reduces the strain on the brakes of the towing vehicle and helps ensure a smoother, safer towing experience. They are particularly valuable in situations that require sudden or extreme braking, such as during an unexpected traffic stop or a descent down a steep hill, where the towed vehicle's momentum could otherwise make stopping difficult.

Given that in many jurisdictions it is a legal requirement to have a supplemental braking system when towing a vehicle, installing one becomes essential.

Advantages of Towed Vehicle Supplemental Brakes:
1. Enhanced safety: They provide an extra layer of safety by aiding control of the towed vehicle and preventing unwanted movement.
2. Legal compliance: In many jurisdictions, having a supplemental braking system is a legal requirement when towing a vehicle.
3. Reduced wear and tear: They alleviate strain on the towing vehicle’s braking system, reducing wear and tear and potentially expensive repairs.
4. Smooth operation: They help ensure a smoother, safer towing experience, especially on downhill descents and in emergency stops.
5. Breakaway feature: Some systems come equipped with a breakaway feature that automatically applies the towed vehicle's brakes if it becomes disconnected from the towing vehicle, thereby helping to avoid accidents.