Coupling To The Tow Vehicle
resistance, the brakes are NOT applying properly. If you have free-backing brakes
and stroking the actuator (as described above) causes the trailer to roll away
without initial resistance, then the brakes are NOT applying properly. The brake
system MUST be evaluated to determine the cause of the problem and corrective
action MUST be taken before the trailer is used. Use this procedure each time you
tow your trailer to check your surge brake system operation.
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4.3.1.10 Test Surge Brake Breakaway System
Before towing, check that the breakaway lever and lanyard are properly positioned.
If the breakaway lever and lanyard are not located correctly due to either the
lanyard being pulled during use or by accident, it MUST be reset prior to the trailer
being moved.
See the Surge Brake Actuator manual for the correct resetting and testing
procedure.
! WARNING
The breakaway system is designed to operate if the trailer
separates from the tow vehicle.
DO NOT use the breakaway system as a parking brake.
UNCOUPLING A BUMPER PULL TRAILER
Follow these steps to uncouple your ball hitch trailer from the tow vehicle:
Park the trailer on a firm level surface and block trailer tires.
Disconnect the electrical connector.
Disconnect the breakaway brake switch lanyard.
Disconnect the safety chains from the tow vehicle.
Unlock the coupler and open it.
Before extending jack, make certain the ground surface below the jack pad will
support the tongue load.
Rotate the jack handle to extend the jack and transfer the weight of the trailer
tongue to the jack.
Raise the trailer coupler above the tow vehicle hitch.