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page 10
T-12-T
1.8
Hook-Up Procedures
Connect the tow vehicle to the trailer and check that the coupler is completely latched.
Be sure that a safety pin is inserted to ensure coupler will not unlatch during transport.
Connect the electrical plug from the trailer’s harness to the receptacle of the tow
vehicle. Check all lights on the trailer to make sure they are working correctly with the
tow vehicle’s electrical system.
Be sure the landing leg and drop foot are fully retracted and the crank handle is
stowed in transport position. For trailers with 2-speed jacks, use low gear for raising
and lower the jack under load, and high gear for raising and lowering the leg when it is
off the ground.
Check all safety chains and their attachment to both the trailer and the towing ve-
hicle. Connect safety chains to tow vehicle using crossed pattern under tongue. Allow
slack for turning, but avoid having chains drag on pavement. Make certain that all
attachment devices are properly installed and in good working order.
For trailers with air brakes, connect the Glad Hands (one service and one emer-
gency) to tow vehicle. Shut off petcock(s) on air tank(s) or if already shut, open to
exhaust all moisture, then shut off. It is very important that the air system be drained of
moisture after each use to keep all components functioning properly and to make equip-
ment safe.
Trailers with electric brakes or hydraulic surge brakes come equipped with an emer-
gency breakaway device. The breakaway system is designed to operate after the cou-
pling system has failed. Connect breakaway chain S-hook to bumper or hitch on tow
vehicle. Allow slack for turning, but avoid letting chain drag on pavement. Provide as
straight a connection as possible.
The breakaway system is for emergencies and is not a parking brake.
The following paragraphs pertain to trailers with hydraulic surge brakes:
The ‘surge’ or ‘push’ of the trailer toward the tow vehicle when the tow vehicle
brakes are applied actuates the trailer brakes. Excessive surge actuator travel (over
one inch) when brakes are applied indicates a need to adjust the trailer brakes.
Should the breakaway be accidentally applied while unhitching, pry the breakaway
locks apart to release lever.
Sway control devices that restrict operation of the actuator cannot be used. The
actuator must be free to telescope in response to braking requirements.
Operation
