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page 33
T-16-UT (4+16)
Synchronization
To insure safe braking performance and synchronization,
read the brake controller
manufacturer’s instructions completely before attempting any synchronization proce-
dure.
ROAD SAFETY!
Before making road tests, make sure that the area is clear of vehicular
and pedestrian traffic. The purpose of these tests is to adjust the brakes
for safe operation, and therefore you should expect that initial braking
action make be weak or irregular.
Make several hard stops from 20 mph on a dry paved road free of sand and gravel.
If the trailer brakes lock and slide, decrease the gain setting on the controller. If they do
not slide, slightly increase the gain setting. Adjust the controller just to the point of
impending brake lockup and wheel skid.
Note:
Minimum vehicle stopping distances are achieved when wheels approach
lockup, however actual brake lockup should be avoided as it results in poor vehicle
stability and control. Depending on load, brake type, wheels and tires, not all trailer
brakes are capable of wheel lockup.
If the controller is applying the trailer brakes before the tow vehicle brakes, then the
controller level adjustment should be adjusted so that the trailer brakes come on in
synchronization with the tow vehicle brakes. For proper braking performance, it is rec-
ommended that the controller be adjusted to allow the trailer brakes to come on just
slightly ahead of the tow vehicle brakes. When proper synchronization is achieved
there will be no sensation of the trailer “jerking” or “pushing” the tow vehicle during
braking.
Controllers
Start by making sure trailer 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’s inertia sensor to sense deceleration. The level adjustment also can be
used to vary when the trailer braking is felt. The gain or output control adjustment
usually controls the maximum amount of amperage available to the brakes. This can be
adjusted for varying trailer loads. The chart below details adjustments available for
different brake controllers.
Maintenance
M
A
I
N
T
E
N
A
N
C
E
CAUTION
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Summary of Contents for T-16-UT (4+16)
Page 43: ...page 43 T 16 UT 4 16 Parts 1 2 3 5 4...
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