SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One Review

Here’s What I Think of the SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One

After years of navigating various environments, from the meticulous demands of laboratory setups to the rugged realities of outdoor excursions and the practical grit of workshop projects, I’ve developed a keen appreciation for equipment that performs reliably. The SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One entered my purview during a period where ensuring secure braking for a towed vehicle became paramount. I needed a system that wasn’t just functional but also met stringent regulatory standards, offering peace of mind on extended road trips.

My initial impressions upon unboxing this unit were centered on its apparent robustness. The construction felt solid, devoid of the flimsy plastics or overly complex mechanisms I’ve sometimes encountered in aftermarket towing accessories. This immediate sense of quality hinted at a product designed for longevity and dependable operation. It wasn’t a flashy piece of gear, but rather one that conveyed a sense of engineering purpose.

In the realm of auxiliary braking systems for RVs and towed vehicles, I had considered a few other options. These ranged from simpler, less regulated devices to more integrated, expensive systems. However, the specific regulatory compliance and the promise of a proportional braking action made the Air Force One stand out as a compelling choice that addressed my primary concerns. This initial assessment sparked a sense of cautious optimism.

Real-World Testing: Putting SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One to the Test

My primary testing ground for the SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One was on my personal RV and its towed vehicle, a light-duty truck. This involved multiple cross-country journeys, navigating diverse terrains, traffic conditions, and weather patterns. The system was integrated into a fairly standard motorhome setup, requiring its air brake capability to function effectively with the towed car’s braking system.

Performance in various conditions was critical. I experienced everything from stop-and-go city traffic to long stretches of highway driving in both dry heat and steady rain. The system consistently delivered proportional braking, meaning the towed vehicle’s brakes applied with a force that mirrored my RV’s braking. This felt incredibly natural, without any jarring or unexpected lurches from the towed unit.

Ease of use was a significant factor, especially during the initial setup. While I am experienced with vehicle systems, the clarity of instructions and the logical layout of the components made the installation process straightforward. Once installed, the system is largely hands-off; its operation is automatic and integrated with the RV’s air brake system. There was no steep learning curve; it simply worked as advertised.

During the first few trips, the most notable positive surprise was the sheer seamlessness of its operation. I’ve had auxiliary braking systems in the past that required constant tweaking or recalibration. This model, however, engaged with such consistent proportionality that I quickly stopped thinking about it, which is precisely the highest compliment for safety equipment. I did, however, pay close attention to any potential for over-application or lag, neither of which materialized during this initial phase.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and thousands of miles logged, the SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It has consistently performed its core function without any signs of degradation or failure. The proportional braking remains smooth and predictable, regardless of how aggressively or gently I apply the brakes on the motorhome.

Durability has been excellent. I haven’t observed any cracks, stiffness in any moving parts, or any loss in braking responsiveness. The materials used in its construction feel robust, and they’ve weathered constant use without showing any significant wear. Even with exposure to road dust and occasional moisture, the system’s integrity has remained intact.

Maintenance for this unit is remarkably simple, which is a major advantage for any piece of equipment designed for extended travel. The design intentionally avoids complex components like pulleys, catches, or springs, which are common failure points in other systems. Cleaning is minimal, primarily involving ensuring the air lines are clear and free of debris.

Comparing it to previous experiences, this air brake system significantly outperforms less sophisticated braking aids. It offers a level of integration and automatic adjustment that budget alternatives simply cannot match. While there are higher-end, fully custom-integrated systems available, the Air Force One strikes an impressive balance between advanced functionality and practical implementation.

Breaking Down the Features of SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One

The SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One is engineered with a focus on regulatory compliance and functional simplicity. Its core design philosophy revolves around utilizing the motorhome’s existing air brake system to provide proportional braking for a towed vehicle. This approach eliminates the need for separate, complex braking mechanisms within the towed unit itself.

The system’s proportional braking is its standout feature, meaning the braking force applied to the towed vehicle directly corresponds to the force used on the motorhome’s brakes. This crucial specification ensures a much safer and more controlled towing experience, especially during emergency stops. It also adheres to stringent Department of Transportation (DOT) and National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) regulations.

Specifications

The product details indicate that the SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One is the only air brake system designed to meet both DOT and NHTSA regulations for cars and light-duty trucks, provided the motorhome itself is equipped with air brakes. This regulatory approval is a significant specification, assuring users of its safety and compliance. The design intentionally no pulleys, catches, or springs; this absence of mechanical wear points is a key design choice aimed at enhancing reliability and longevity.

A critical integrated feature is the built-in breakaway system. If the air brake system is suddenly interrupted (e.g., due to disconnection), this feature is designed to engage the towed vehicle’s brakes automatically. This provides an essential layer of safety should an unforeseen event occur. The system is designed to fit every car when used with a motorhome that has air brakes, and it meets all New Hampshire State and Federal Voucher Program standards, broadening its applicability.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One is to provide safe and effective braking for a towed vehicle, directly linked to the motorhome’s braking system. Its performance in this regard is outstanding; the proportional braking is exceptionally smooth, making the towed vehicle feel like an integrated part of the motorhome rather than a separate entity. This proportional response is consistently accurate, reducing driver fatigue and enhancing overall safety.

The system’s key strengths lie in its simplicity and effectiveness. The absence of complex moving parts means there is very little to go wrong, leading to high reliability. Its greatest strength is undoubtedly its DOT and NHTSA approval, providing a level of assurance that is hard to find in competing products. The only area that might be considered a weakness, depending on the user’s perspective, is its reliance on the motorhome having an existing air brake system, which limits its applicability.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this air brake unit emphasizes functionality over aesthetics, which is appropriate for its intended application. The construction appears to be from durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of the road and various environmental conditions. While specific materials aren’t detailed, the perceived sturdiness is high, giving confidence in its build quality.

Ergonomically, the system is designed to be largely invisible once installed and operational. Its “ergonomics” are more about its integration into the vehicle’s existing systems rather than how a user directly interacts with it day-to-day. The lack of user-facing controls or adjustments is a testament to its automatic operation. Practical design details, such as the integrated breakaway feature, are crucial for safety and are well-implemented.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction and the absence of wear-prone mechanical components, the SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One is built for long-term durability. It is classified as a reusable, heavy-duty component designed for continuous use in mobile applications. The design inherently minimizes potential failure points, suggesting a long service life under normal operating conditions.

Maintenance is straightforward due to its simple design. Ensuring air lines are clear and free of obstructions is the primary concern. There are no specific parts to replace regularly, making it a low-maintenance solution. The only potential concern would be damage to the air lines or connections, but these are generally replaceable components and not inherent to the core braking mechanism.

Accessories and Customization Options

The product description for the SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One does not specify any included accessories. Given its function as an integrated air brake system, extensive customization options are not typically expected. Its strength lies in its dedicated, approved functionality. Compatibility with air brake systems on the motorhome is the primary requirement, rather than needing specific accessories for the unit itself.

Pros and Cons of SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One

Who Should Buy SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One?

The SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One is an excellent choice for RV owners and operators who tow a car or light-duty truck and whose motorhome is equipped with an air brake system. This includes individuals undertaking frequent and long-distance travel who prioritize safety and regulatory compliance above all else. It is also ideal for those who have previously experienced unreliable or inconsistent braking with other auxiliary systems and are seeking a robust, approved solution.

Individuals who do not have an air brake system on their motorhome should look elsewhere, as this unit is designed specifically to integrate with such systems. Those seeking a very budget-friendly, basic braking solution might find the initial investment too high, although the long-term reliability and safety benefits likely justify the cost. Potential buyers should ensure they or their installer have experience with vehicle air brake systems for proper integration.

Conclusion on SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One

The SMI Marketing 9599007 Air Force One is a truly exceptional piece of equipment for its specific application. Its claim of being the sole air brake system to meet stringent DOT and NHTSA regulations isn’t just a marketing point; it’s a testament to its engineered safety and performance. The proportional braking is incredibly effective, making towing feel far more secure and less taxing on the driver.

The value proposition here is clearly centered on safety and compliance. While the $1349.00 price tag is significant, the peace of mind and the reduction in potential liability that comes with a fully regulated and highly reliable system are well worth the investment for serious RVers. I would absolutely recommend this unit to anyone with an air brake-equipped motorhome who is towing a vehicle and prioritizes the highest level of safety and regulatory adherence. It’s a buy-it-once, trust-it-always kind of product.