15
Trailer Brakes
.
Travel trailer and fth wheel brakes are actuated by 12V
electrical energy, converted to mechanical energy, providing
power for smooth, safe, stops. Greater electrical current
from the brake controller will provide greater braking force
applied to the trailer brake drums.
Grounding.
Only proper grounding back to the tow vehicle can
complete the 12V electrical circuit within a travel trailer
or fth wheel brake system. A poor ground circuit from the
brakes to the tow vehicle battery can be as detrimental to
ef cient braking as a poor primary circuit from the battery
to the brakes. Do not rely on the hitch ball/coupler for a
good ground. Run a ground in the 12-volt connector to
the tow vehicle battery negative post, or the tow vehicle
frame. The ground conductor must be the same wire size
as the “charge line”.
BRAKE INSPECTION & ADJUSTMENT
Complete the following inspections before using the travel
trailer or fth wheel:
§
Inspect all external braking system components.
§
Inspect all wiring connections and test the breakaway
switch as outlined previously.
§
Inspect the brake drums and internal components
each time the wheel bearings are repacked. (See
manufacturer’s Maintenance Schedule provided with
your Owner’s Packet).
§
The magnets and linings should not show excessive
or uneven wear.
§
The magnets should move freely on their mounts.
§
After replacing the hubs on the axle, adjust the brakes
as follows, using a standard automotive brake tool:
Remove the rubber plug from the adjustment hole at
1.
the base of the brake drum backing plate.
Raise the wheel off the ground. Place the jack under
2.
the axle only.
With the adjusting tool, turn the adjusting screw
3.
while spinning the wheel. When the wheel begins
to drag heavily, back off the screw just enough for
the wheel to spin freely.
Replace the adjustment hole plug. Lower the wheel,
4.
remove the jack and repeat the sequence for the
other wheels.
BRAKING TIPS
Never use the trailer brakes alone for extended
periods
.
§
They were designed to stop the trailer, not the tow
vehicle.
§
Such use places excessive loads on the brakes, causing
overheating, fading, and premature wear of magnets,
brake shoe linings and drums.
Never use the tow vehicle brakes alone.
§
The weight of a loaded travel trailer or fth wheel will
more than double the load placed on the vehicle’s
brakes.
§
Driving control is adversely affected when tow vehicle
brakes are used alone, due to the force of the trailer
pushing against the tow vehicle. This is especially true
on slippery pavement or loose gravel, and jackkni ng
can occur.
Always use the automatic brake controller.
§
The synchronized braking system enables safe driving
with both hands on the steering wheel.
§
If the brake controller is properly adjusted, there will
be a slight “lead” on the trailer brakes. This braking
resistance, combined with the tow vehicle’s engine
pulling power, helps keep the two vehicles correctly
aligned and help bring them to a safe, straight stop.
PARKING & LEVELING
Park on a wide, level spot whenever possible, never on
a steep slope. Leveling is necessary for comfort and for
correct operation of your refrigerator and monitor panel.
SIDE TO SIDE SITE LEVELING
To level the trailer from side to side:
§
Use a step ramp, which can be constructed from several
lengths of 2x6 lumber
§
Place under the wheels on the low side of the trailer.
§
Use a bubble level to determine when the trailer is
level.
FRONT TO REAR LEVELING
To level the trailer from front to rear:
§
Block the wheels so that the trailer cannot roll.
§
Uncouple the trailer from the tow vehicle.
§
Level the trailer front-to rear, with the dolly wheel jack
(Travel Trailers) or landing gear (Fifth Wheel).
§
Stabilizer jacks should be placed under the frame after
the trailer has been leveled. Front and rear for travel
trailers. Rear only for fth wheels.
§
Some models will require stabilizer jack placement in
slightly different locations.
§
Stabilizer jacks are not intended to support the entire
weight of the trailer, but to steady it while the weight
is supported by the dolly wheel jack and running gear
(Travel Trailer) or landing gear (Fifth Wheel).
