Inspection, Service & Maintenance
and the breakaway pin is pulled. The other brake is an electric braking system that
acts whenever the brakes of the tow vehicle are applied.
Breakaway Brake
Breakaway Battery - This battery supplies the power to operate the
trailer brakes if the trailer uncouples from the tow vehicle. Be sure to
check, maintain and replace the battery according to the battery
manufacturer’s instructions.
Breakaway Switch - This switch causes the breakaway battery to
operate the electric brakes if the trailer uncouples from the tow vehicle.
The lanyard for the pull pin is connected to the tow vehicle, and the switch
is connected to the trailer. To check for proper functioning of the switch,
battery and brakes, you must pull the pin from the switch and confirm that
the brakes apply to each wheel. You can do this by trying to pull the trailer
with the tow vehicle, after pulling the pin. The trailer brakes may not lock,
but you will notice that a greater force is needed to pull the trailer.
Do Not Use Breakaway Switch as Parking Brake.
150
! WARNING
If electric breakaway brakes do not operate when trailer is
uncoupled from the tow vehicle, death or serious injury can occur.
Check emergency breakaway brake system BEFORE each tow.
10.2.1.6 Tow Vehicle Operated Electric Brakes
The electric brakes that operate in conjunction with the tow vehicle brakes must be
“synchronized” so that braking is properly distributed to the tow vehicle brakes and
the trailer brakes. For proper operation and synchronization, read and follow the
axle/brake and the brake controller manufacturers’ instructions. If you do not have
these instructions, contact your dealer for assistance.
10.2.1.7 Magnets for all Electric Brakes
To make certain an electrically-operated braking system will function properly, you
must have your dealer inspect the magnets at least once a year, or each 12,000
miles. See the brake manual for wear and current inspection instructions.
TRAILER BRAKES – SURGE (IF EQUIPPED)
10.2.1.8 Surge Brake Master Cylinder
Check fluid level prior to using the trailer. The master cylinder (1) is located on the
tongue of the trailer. The fluid level must maintained at no less than ½ full, and no
more than ½ inch from the top. Use DOT type 3 or 4 automotive brake fluid.