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The brakes have been factory calibrated for smooth positive response. During the break-in
period, you may experience squeaking brakes. This is normal and will cease after a few miles of
break-in wear.
These brakes provide both automatic and manual control for trailer brakes, and require that the
tow vehicle be equipped with additional electrical wiring and a control box in the tow vehicle
that can activate the brake system either automatically or by the driver of the tow vehicle. When
the tow vehicle brakes are applied, an electric current energizes a magnet for each brake, which
moves an actuating lever to activate the trailer brakes in proportion the rate of deceleration.
When the tow vehicle brake pedal is released, the magnet is de-energized, and the trailer brakes
are released.
Brake System Components
The braking system on your trailer consists of several major components, all of which must
function properly for safe and responsive braking.
Brake Controller
: note – the brake controller is not supplied with your trailer. The electric
trailer brakes are automatically applied by the brake controller, which is usually mounted within
easy reach of the tow vehicle driver.
WARNING!
Do not install a fuse in the circuit between the tow vehicle battery and an electric or electronic
brake controller. A blown fuse will cause the controller to cease functioning both automatically
and manually, causing loss of trailer braking with no advance warning.
Connector Plug
: the multi-pin cord connector at the front of the trailer transfers power from the
tow vehicle battery to the trailer brakes, exterior lighting system and battery.
Breakaway Switch
: The breakaway switch is located on the trailer tongue. It has a steel cable
(lanyard) fastened to it which will reach to the frame of the tow vehicle. This device is one of
the most vital components on your trailer’s braking system.
Emergency Brakes
Breakaway switches are also required for any trailer having a gross weight of 1500 lbs. or more
and manufactured after December 31, 1955. They are designed to activate trailer brakes if the
tow vehicle becomes separated from the trailer. One end of the breakaway switch is attached to
an electrical switch on the trailer frame and the other end is looped around a stationary hitch
component on the tow vehicle. If the cable becomes detached from the breakaway switch due to
a failure at the hitch the trailer’s brake is automatically activated. It automatically applies the
trailer brakes if the tow vehicle and trailer become uncoupled while in motion.
The breakaway switch operates when a pull pin linked by the cable to the tow vehicle is
separated from the switch. When the switch closes, power for brake application is transferred to
the onboard trailer battery. The steel lanyard must be anchored to the tow vehicle when the
trailer is hitched up. Secure this cable loop to the permanent frame of the tow vehicle or a part of
the hitch that is not removable.
Summary of Contents for T2801
Page 2: ...BIGFOOT TRAILER MANUAL DRAFT 8 APRIL 3 2008 ...
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