Brakes and Breakaway Systems
20
PCMS Operations, Safety & Maintenance V3.0
Ver-Mac 2018
CAUTION
Only qualified and experienced personnel should bleed brakes.
For details on how to bleed the brakes, refer to the manufacturer’s manual for the
braking system.
7.2.1
Testing the Brakes
NOTE
Testing the trailer braking system is always a two person operation.
For safe driving, you need to check the brakes to be sure they fully release when the tow
vehicle is in motion, and apply properly and evenly when the tow vehicle is braking.
Testing Hydraulic Brakes
1.
Deploy the jacks and raise wheels off the ground
2.
Activate the brake actuator with the breakaway cable and hold for approx. 10
seconds while your partner vigorously spins the trailer wheel
The wheel should come to an abrupt stop
3.
Check both sides to confirm good hydraulic performance of the braking system
4.
When you release the pressure on the master cylinder, the wheel should rotate
freely. A slight drag of the shoe and drum is normal
Even if the brakes apply normally, the only way to know if the brakes are adjusted
properly is to test drive the trailer behind a vehicle.
7.2.2
Hydraulic Surge Brake Maintenance
WARNING
Failure to properly and adequately grease and maintain the
actuator could weaken it and may cause it to fail.
Full Maintenance Procedure
1.
Check the brake fluid and change if sediment or water contamination
2.
Check all lines and fittings for corrosion or leaks Replace as necessary
3.
Remove the brake drums and clean inside the brakes
Check brake pads, shoes and related parts. Replace as necessary
4.
Pack the wheel bearings with grease before the drum is installed
5.
Adjust and test the brakes
