Log In | Register
Skip to main content
Topic: Toad for sale (Read 4 times) previous topic - next topic
0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.
Toad for sale
Yahoo Message Number: 23489
I have sold my LD 30IB, but the toad is still available - a '02 Saturn SL2, AT, AC, PS, PB, PW, PL, CC, dark green, 12K miles, Falcon towbar, SMI brakes, Guardian shield, integrated brake/tail lights.
$11,995 OBO.  909-795-1122 So. Calif.    Gary
Re: Toad for sale
Reply #1 –
Yahoo Message Number: 23497
Gary,

I'm not really interested in your Saturn, though it sounds like a good deal for someone that is, but would like to ask your opinion of the SMI supplemental brake system you have for it. I'd like to know what model it is since they have at least 4 different models ranging in price from almost $800-$1100. I'd also like to see as complete a review of it both pro and con as you can give including set-up and any other info you can offer on it. This would be helpful to others in the group looking for or interested in info on a braking system as well.

Mike R.
Re: Toad for sale
Reply #2 –
Yahoo Message Number: 23504
Mike R. -
 There were 3 main factors that convinced me that the SMI brake system was the way to go: First, I didn't want any brake installation to be visible when not in use. The only indication of this system that is apparent when not towing is a thin electical cable and the vaccuum hose coming through the firewall into the driver's side, which can be tucked up above the pedals and out of sight. Second, with the power brakes actually activated when braking, a pedal pressure comparable to that when driving the car is all that is required, not the 4 or 5 times pressure needed when the engine was not running. This would seem to reduce wear and tear on the structure holding the pedals.
Also, the positive retraction of the pedal rather than a somewhat passive spring return seemed desirable. Third, since I wanted to install a brake system myself, I wanted it to be as simple as possible to install. I was able to accomplish that with relative ease, although not as quickly as the factory says it can be done. One phone call to the factory with a question I had was answered quickly, courteously, and completely. The system I bought was the "Plug and Play" version. It has the sensitivity adjustment on the case and cannot be adjusted while driving, but once you get it set to where you want it, it doesn't need to be changed from one hookup occasion to another.

I have towed with this setup from So. Calif to Idaho, across the Bighorn mountains to Minnesota and Iowa, back throught the Rockies into Wyoming and back home, plus shorter trips, with no problems, with a positive feel of the toad brakes activated, along with a LED indication of the system operating. The peace of mind this gives is priceless. I can enthusiastically recommend the SMI system. No, I have no connection whatsoever with them.

Hope this opinion helps.      Gary
 
Re: Toad for sale
Reply #3 –
Yahoo Message Number: 23510
Gary,
 Thanks a lot for the info! In my view ALL opinions help with making a decision on what to buy. I typically request info from as many people as I can and also look at any available from as many sources as possible including consumer product testing organizations. I don't just rely on the info from any single source alone. The more data you compile to analyze the easier it is to make an educated decision!
 Good luck with selling your Saturn and towing equipment for it. As a package it sounds like a good deal for someone.

Again, thanks!

Mike R.