TRAVEL TRAILER BRAKE SYSTEMS
Electric Brake System
The electric brakes on your travel trailer of fifth wheel are similar to
those on your automobile; the difference being that they are
activated by 12 volt electrical impulse instead of a hydraulic system.
The impulse comes from a brake controller, which regulates the
flow of electrical current to the trailer brakes.
Brakes are usually maintenance free; however, road and driving
conditions may at times cause them to grab, drag, or fade. Also,
improper grounding of the trailer to the tow vehicle, irregular
current, or a short circuit in the wiring system will cause electric
brakes to malfunction. We recommend that you consult your dealer
or local trailer brake specialist on these problems.
Electric brakes should be checked periodically to determine the
condition of the magnets and drums, and whether wiring
connections are still secure (see manufacturer’s instructions).
Brakes can be adjusted to activate ahead of the tow vehicle brakes
for best road control. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions or
your dealer for detailed maintenance and service procedures.
Allow approximately 1,000 miles of use to break in the shoes on the
trailer brakes. After the break-in period, have the brake shoes
adjusted professionally to provide ideal performance and maximum
useful life.
Your travel trailer braking system requires several components to
provide safe, effective braking. Make sure all components are in
good working order to ensure proper braking. Braking system
components include:
•
Brake Controller
•
Tow Vehicle Battery/Electrical System
•
7-Way Wire Harness
•
Breakaway Switch
Brake Controller (Owner Supplied)
Your new travel trailer is equipped with electric brakes. A brake
controller should be installed in the tow vehicle to work with the
travel trailer brakes. There are several different manufacturers of
brake controllers. Each controller has adjustable settings to
provide safe, effective stopping when properly adjusted. Read the
instruction manual for the brake controller and learn about its
proper use prior to pulling your travel trailer.
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