Inspection, Service & Maintenance
to manually bleed the system, an assistant is required. Use the following steps to
manually bleed the brake system:
Disconnect the trailer from the tow vehicle and jack the trailer's tongue until it
is horizontal. Make sure that the wheels are blocked so that the trailer will not
roll away.
Fill the master cylinder with fluid as described in 10.2.4.1.
Install a bleeder hose on the bleeder screw of the farthest wheel cylinder from
the actuator. If the trailer has multiple axles, bleed the rear axle first.
Submerse the other end of the hose in a glass container of brake fluid, so that
air bubbles can be observed.
Open the bleeder screw and have your assistant stroke (but not release) the
actuator. Brake fluid and/or air bubbles will flow into the jar. Close the bleeder
screw. The helper can then allow the actuator to return to its rest position.
Repeat the process until no more bubbles are released with the stroke. Air trapped
in the brake lines will greatly reduce your braking efficiency. Be sure to close the
bleeder screw securely when the cylinder is fully bled. Repeat the bleeding
operation at each wheel cylinder. During the bleeding process, replenish the
master cylinder reservoir with fresh brake fluid so that the level does not fall below
half full. This will ensure that no air is drawn into the system.
After all brakes have been bled, refill the master cylinder as described in section
10.2.4.1 before operating. Be sure to install the master cylinder filler cap.
! WARNING
Use only fresh brake fluid from a sealed container. DO NOT reuse
fluid. After filling and bleeding, refill the actuator. Failure to
maintain an adequate fluid level may cause brake failure.
TRAILER CONNECTION TO TOW VEHICLE
10.2.1.11 Bumper Pull Coupler and Ball
The coupler on the trailer connects to the ball attached to the hitch on the tow
vehicle. The coupler, ball and hitch transfer the towing forces between the tow
vehicle and the trailer. Before each tow, coat the ball with a thin layer of automotive
bearing grease to reduce wear and ensure proper operation; and check the locking
device that secures the coupler to the ball for proper operation.
See the coupler manufacturer’s manual for other inspection and maintenance
activities. If you do not have this manual, contact your dealer for assistance.
If you see or feel evidence of wear, such as flat spots, deformations, pitting or
corrosion, on the ball or coupler, immediately have your dealer inspect them to
determine the proper action to prevent possible failure of the ball and coupler
system. All bent or broken coupler parts must be replaced before towing the trailer.
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