B
TOWING
B - 2
Disc Brakes
The disc brake system is a proven system that includes a ventilated rotor that fits over
the hub, combined with a caliper and mounting bracket that attach to the axle end
assembly by bolting to the standard brake flange. Major automobile manufacturers
and others have used this type of rotor installation for many years. The wheel studs
are pressed into the hub only. The rotor is a loose fit on the hub, is centered by the
wheel bolts, and is retained by the wheel, which in turn is retained by the wheel nuts.
Removal of the rotor can be accomplished with little effort once the caliper has been
removed.
Safety Information
1. Only qualified persons who are knowledgeable of brakes and brake systems should
perform brake installation, maintenance or repair on any vehicle.
2. Familiarize yourself with state laws regarding the operation of towed vehicles,
especially with regards to brake/braking requirements. Allow for extra stopping
distance that may be required when towing.
3. Immediately after each hook up, always test that the trailer brakes are operating
properly before attaining normal road speed.
4. Make regular, periodic inspections of your trailer brakes. The inspection should
include:
a. Pads – for evidence of excessive or uneven wear.
b. Rotors – for evidence of excessive wear, scoring, excessive heat
build up, cracks, warpage.
c. Actibrake Master Cylinder – proper fluid levels.
d. All bolted connections – tight
e. Calipers and Brake Lines – for evidence of brake fluid leak.
Preventive Maintenance
1. Visually check brakes before each trip. See item 4 in safety Information.
2. After each hook-up, always check trailer brake operation before attaining normal
driving speed.
3. Follow manufacturer’s recommendations with regard to use of and replacement of
brake fluid.
4. Wash down brake assembly immediately after exposure to salt water or other
corrosives.
5. Periodically, during each trip, check hub and assemblies to make sure that they are
within normal operating ranges (130°- 175° F). Do not touch brake components, as
they may be much hotter than the hub or wheel, especially after recent braking.
Actibrake Disc Brake Actuator System
ActiBrake is part of a trailer braking system. ActiBrake is a state-of-the-art trailer brake
actuator. ActiBrake is the fastest responding, most advanced electric-hydraulic pump
actuator available.
Brake Controllers
Your trailer braking system is like a chain. It is only as good as its weakest link. This is
especially true regarding tow vehicle brake controllers. There are many marginal brake
controllers on the market, and ActiBrake will only apply the level of braking indicated
by the brake controller’s “blue wire” signal. Therefore, we urge you not to economize
on a brake controller because it will only diminish the overall performance of ActiBrake
and your trailer braking system in general. Unlike electric drum brakes, the ActiBrake
does not receive its power through the “blue wire”. The power to the ActiBrake is
