Holiday Savoy LX 2006, Manual

Page: 38 / 154

38 • Section 2 — 2006 Driving & Safety Savoy SL & LX 5th Wheel & Travel Trailer
or amount of deceleration of the tow vehicle. It is important that the brake control provide about 2 Volts to the
braking system when the brake pedal is first depressed and gradually increases the voltage to 12 Volts as brake
pedal pressure is increased. If the controller “jumps” immediately to high voltage output, even during a gradual
stop, the electric brakes will always be fully energized and will result in harsh brakes and potential wheel lock-up.
Proper synchronization of tow vehicle to recreational vehicle braking can only be accomplished by road
testing. Brake lockup, grabbing or harshness is often due to the lack of synchronization between the tow vehicle
and the recreational vehicle being towed, too high of a threshold voltage (over 2 Volts) or under adjusted brakes.
Before synchronization adjustments are made the recreational vehicle brakes should be burnished in by
applying the brakes 2 to 3 times with about a 20 mph decrease in speed, e.g. 40 mph to 20 mph. Allow ample time
for brakes to cool between applications, letting brake shoes and magnets to slightly wear-in to drum surfaces.
Controllers
To ensure safe brake performance and synchronization, completely read the brake controller manufacturer’s
instructions before attempting synchronization procedure. Make several hard stops from 20 mph on a dry paved
road, free of sand and gravel. If the recreational vehicle brakes lock immediately, decrease gain setting on the
controller. If they do not approach progressive lock-up slightly increase the gain setting.
CAUTION:
Before making road tests, verify the area is clear of vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
NOTE:
Minimum vehicle stopping distances are achieved when wheels approach lock-up. Avoid
brake lock-up as it results in poor vehicle stability and control. Depending on the load, brake
type, wheels and tires, not all recreational vehicle brakes are capable of wheel lock-up.
If the controller is applying recreational vehicle brakes before the tow vehicle brakes, adjust controller level
so the recreational vehicle brakes come on in synchronization with the tow vehicle brakes. Adjust controller
to allow recreational vehicle brakes to come on just slightly ahead of the tow vehicle brakes. When proper
synchronization is achieved there will be no sensation of the recreational vehicle jerking or “pushing” the tow
vehicle during braking.
Start by making sure the recreational vehicle brakes are properly adjusted. Some controllers have a gain
control to vary the amount of current to the brakes and a level control which sets the controller inertia sensor
to sense deceleration. The level adjustment can also vary when the recreational vehicle braking is felt. Gain, or
output control, adjustment usually controls maximum amount of amperage available to the brakes. This can be
adjusted for varying recreational vehicle load.
CAUTION:
Do not adjust this control outside the parameters outlined by the brake controller
manufacturer’s instructions.
Maintenance
Brake Adjustment:
Brakes should be adjusted (1) after the first 200 miles of operation when the brakes shoes and drums have
seated, (2) at 3,000 mile intervals, or (3) as use performance requires. The brake should be adjusted in the
following manner: