For safe towing, selecting a reliable braking system is essential. This guide highlights five well-regarded options that fit a range of tow setups, from vacuum-powered brakes to purely mechanical systems, and includes a practical buying guide to help compare features, compatibility, and ease of installation.
| Product | Brand | Type | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roadmaster Invisibrake | Roadmaster | Vacuum-Powered | Out of sight install; energizes power brakes to match towing braking |
| NSA RV ReadyBrake | NSA RV Products Inc. | Proportional Mechanical | Simple, fully proportional braking, universal fit |
| Roadmaster Even Brake | Roadmaster | Proportional, LED Monitor | Even braking with monitor and breakaway |
| Bzumperyz Break Away Device | Bzumperyz | Breakaway System | Maintains brakes if separation occurs |
| Blue Ox Patriot BRK2505 | Blue Ox | Breakaway Switch | Safety switch with breakaway kit compatibility |
Note: The selections above cover both universal fit and model-specific options, offering choices that emphasize safety, ease of installation, and long-term reliability for American towing setups.
Roadmaster Invisibrake System With Emergency Breakaway
The Roadmaster Invisibrake support braking system is designed for towed vehicles with vacuum-powered brakes. It energizes the towed vehicle’s power brake system to provide braking response consistent with the motorhome. Its compact footprint (about 8″ x 8″ x 2″) allows mounting under seats, behind panels, or in the trunk without sacrificing usable space. This kit supports 5-100 PSI brake pressure and is made in the USA, focusing on unobtrusive installation while preserving brake feel during towing.
NSA RV ReadyBrake Tow Vehicle Supplemental Surge Brake System
The ReadyBrake system from NSA RV provides a simple, proportional braking response from a hitch-mounted surge brake. It is built to be purely mechanical, avoiding electronic components that could fail. The 2025 cable routing update improves installation ease and eliminates the need for firewall drilling, making it compatible with virtually any tow vehicle and hitch-mounted tow bar. It is marketed as a universal-fit solution designed to deliver instant, fully proportional braking to the towed vehicle, aligning with braking input from the motorhome.
Roadmaster 9400 Even Brake With LED Monitor
Roadmaster 9400 Even Brake is a portable braking system that supports even braking between the towing vehicle and the towed vehicle, with an LED monitor for status and a breakaway emergency braking system. It’s designed for compatibility with a broad range of towed vehicles and aims for straightforward installation. The Anytime “Even Brake” concept reflects synchronized application of braking force, reducing wear on the towed vehicle’s brakes while enhancing overall towing safety. This model is fully manufactured in the USA, emphasizing reliability and clarity of braking signals.
Bzumperyz Break Away Device
The Bzumperyz Break Away Device is a breakaway system designed for RV towed vehicles. It ensures that, in the event of separation, the towed vehicle’s brakes are applied to help maintain control and stop safely. The installation includes mounting steps that pass through firewall areas and attach to the tow bar harness. This device is particularly relevant for jurisdictions where breakaway protection is a legal requirement and is positioned as a necessary safety accessory for many towed-car owner setups.
Blue Ox Patriot Breakaway Switch
The Blue Ox Patriot BRK2505/BRK2506 line includes a breakaway switch kit designed to pair with Patriot braking systems. The breakaway switch acts as a safety trigger to stop the towed vehicle if the tow connection fails. The kit includes the essential components, such as the breakaway switch, wiring harness, and breakaway cable, to ensure a prompt braking response in emergencies. It’s particularly suitable for campers and RV setups that rely on Blue Ox’s braking ecosystem for reliability and timed braking response.
Roadmaster 98400 Even Brake Second Vehicle Kit
The Roadmaster 98400 kit is designed to simplify setup when towing with a second vehicle. It supports compatibility with Even Brake systems up to a certain serial number and includes a complete installation kit for an efficient swap between vehicles. This option is ideal for families or RV owners who alternate towed vehicles, providing consistent braking performance when switching the towed vehicle in the same towing configuration.
Blue Ox Patriot Towed Vehicle Braking System Protective Bag
The Blue Ox Patriot protective bag provides a durable storage solution for Patriot braking systems when not in use. Made of heavy-duty vinyl, the bag shields components from dust and minor impacts during storage and transport. A wide zippered opening allows easy loading and unloading of the braking equipment, helping keep gear organized for frequent travelers and seasonal campers.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- System Type: Decide between purely mechanical systems (like surge brakes) and vacuum-powered or electronically assisted systems. Mechanical options tend to be robust with fewer electronic failure points, while vacuum-powered or electronic systems can offer smoother, proportional braking that more closely mirrors the towing vehicle’s behavior.
- Vehicle Compatibility: Check compatibility with your towing vehicle’s brakes (vacuum-powered, hydraulic, or electric), hitch type, and whether you need a universal solution or a model-specific kit.
- Proportional Braking: Look for systems that provide proportional braking (towed vehicle braking in line with motorhome braking). This reduces runaway or abrupt braking and minimizes wear on the towed vehicle’s brakes.
- Emergency Breakaway: A breakaway feature is essential for legal compliance in many regions. Ensure the kit includes a breakaway switch or breakaway device, with clear mounting and wiring instructions.
- Installation Complexity: Some systems install under seats or behind panels, while others require more significant mounting. Consider your comfort with DIY installation and whether professional setup is preferred.
- Portability vs. Permanent Mount: Portable kits offer flexibility across multiple tow setups, while permanently installed systems can provide more integrated performance and visibility.
- Maintenance and Support: Favor brands offering clear installation guides, spare parts availability, and warranty coverage. USA-made products often provide strong support networks for troubleshooting.
- Safety Monitoring: Some systems include LED monitors or automatic brake protection features that alert you to extended braking events to prevent brake wear and overheating.
- Storage and Transport: Accessories such as protective bags can help with storage and transport when the equipment is not in use, reducing dust and wear.