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On the Road - continued
BRAKING SYSTEM
The electric brakes on your trailer are similar to the drum brakes on many cars and trucks. The basic
difference between them is that your trailer brakes are operated by 12-volt DC power from the tow vehicle,
rather than by hydraulic action. The brakes have been factory calibrated for smooth, positive response. During
break-in, they may squeak; this is normal and should cease after a few miles of wear.
Brake System Components
The brake system on your trailer consists of several major components, all of which must function properly for
safe braking.
- Tow Vehicle Battery - The tow vehicle is the primary electrical power source for the trailer
breaking system. The connection is made at the positive post of the battery, or at the tow vehicle starter
solenoid battery terminal.
- Brake Controller - The brake controller is not supplied with your trailer. The electric trailer brakes are
automatically applied by the brake controller, which is mounted within easy reach of the driver. This controller
is connected to the tow vehicle's brake system and is actuated whenever the tow vehicle's brakes are applied.
It may also be used to manually apply the trailer's brakes to control sway (see section on Safe
Driving Rules in this chapter). The controller should have an adjustment for its engagement point; it is best to
have the trailer brakes start acting slightly before those of the tow vehicle. This is called brake "lead". This
causes the trailer to pull against the tow vehicle, keeping the two vehicles in alignment. This is particularly
important during rainy weather or whenever the road surface is slippery. If the tow vehicle sets its brakes first,
the trailer will tend to push the tow vehicle and possibly "jackknife". You may also need a resistor to keep
trailer braking force low enough to prevent wheel lockup. Consult your controller instructions or a professional
installer for further information and wiring instructions.
√
The brake controller is not supplied with your trailer.
Do not install a fuse in the circuit between the tow vehicle battery and the brake
controller. A blown fuse would cause the controller to cease operation both
automatically and manually, causing loss of trailer braking with no advance warning.
- Connector Plug - The multi pin cord connector at the front of the trailer transfers electrical power from the
tow vehicle's battery to the trailer brakes, exterior lighting system, and trailer battery.
15
NOTE
WARNING
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