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BRAKES
A controller should be installed below the dashboard of your tow vehicle to work in
conjunction with the travel trailer brakes. Two types of controllers are available. The
“hydraulic” controller operates through a steel line attached to the master cylinder of the
tow vehicle’s brake system. The “electronic” controller, operates using electrical current.
Reference the operating instructions provided with the controller for adjustment and
operation procedures. Practice coordinating the trailer brakes with the tow vehicle brakes
before towing your vehicle at higher speeds or significant distances. Employing the
trailer brakes before the tow vehicle brakes will reduce swaying.
Electrical
The electric brakes on your travel trailer are designed to work in conjunction with the
hydraulic brakes on your tow vehicle. To have the best brake performance on both
systems, the travel trailer and tow vehicle must perform and operate together. Any
attempt to use either brake system alone will cause accelerated wear and damage.
The battery in the tow vehicle is the primary power source that operates the brakes in
your travel trailer. Keep your battery and charging system in working operation to ensure
available energy when required.
From the battery, power is sent to the controller to provide the correct amount of current
to brake the travel trailer. Use the tow vehicle’s brake pedal for general operation on
combined use of both brake systems. The controller’s manual control is to be used only
in special situations, such as slow movement or icy road conditions. In the open position,
the manual control breaks the electrical current preventing brake engagement. When in
the closed position, electrical current will flow to brake assemblies.
Wiring to operate your brakes must be the same size in both the tow vehicle and the
travel trailer. A minimum of 14 gauge wire is recommended. Your travel trailer has 14
gauge from front end to brakes. Brake assemblies are wired in parallel, never in a series.
Being parallel, there will be equal voltage and amperage at each brake assembly for equal
braking capability and/or performance.
WHEN YOUR TRAVEL TRAILER IS NEW IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO ADJUST
YOUR BRAKE SHOES PRECISELY. IT TAKES APPROXIMATELY 1000
MILES AND/OR 50 MEDIUM TO HEAVY STOPS TO “BURNISH” FIT OR
SEAT THE SHOES TO THE BRAKE DRUM. AFTER THIS INITIAL BREAK-
IN PERIOD, YOU MUST ADJUST YOUR SHOES ACCURATELY FOR BEST
PERFORMANCE AND INCREASED DURABILITY.
BREAKAWAY SWITCH
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CAUTION: For the breakaway switch to be operational, an auxiliary battery
needs to be installed. Consult with your dealer to purchase the battery and
have it installed.
The breakaway switch is one of the most important parts of the travel trailer electric brake
system. This system will apply the brakes of the travel trailer should it break away from
the tow vehicle. The very instant a breakaway occurs, the pull pin, which is linked to the
tow vehicle is pulled from the switch. The two contacts automatically close to complete
the electrical circuit and apply the travel trailer brakes. A 12-volt DC battery is required
to power the breakaway switch.
Fig. 3-5
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WARNING:
NEVER use this breakaway switch and travel trailer
brake system as a parking brake. There would be a high amp draw on
battery and converter, potentially causing damaged wiring, connectors, and
breakaway switch.
SLIDEOUT ROOM OPTION
The slideout room is designed for additional floor space and comfort. Mechanical
components are gear driven and produced by Power Gear Company. Read ALL instructions
in the next four pages before operation to become familiar with the system.
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CAUTION:
Do not place excessive weight in the slideout room.
Components
This slideout system has numerous major components and are as follows:
• One inner rail drive assembly to support room weight.
• A 12-volt DC motor and drive shaft that will operate the room using energy from an on-
board recreation vehicle battery.
• A specially designed auto reset fuse has a load sensing capability that stops the motor
when the room reaches its fully extended or retracted position.
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WARNING:
• Ensure that the travel trailer is level before operating the slideout room.
• Ensure there are no people or obstructions blocking the path of the room when it
is moving.
• Keep away from the slide rails when the room is in motion.
• The gear assembly may pinch or catch on loose clothing causing personal injury.
• Always install travel bars for storage and transportation. (Eagle and Qwest models
only.)
• Ensure the slideout is in the closed position prior to hooking the unit to the tow
vehicle.
Failure to follow these instructions could result in serious injury or death.
Summary of Contents for Conventional Travel Trailer 2003
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