Multiquip Trailers - Manual (Page 23)

trailer • owner's manual — rev. #4 (11/08/13) — page 23
coupling to the tow vehicle
For hydraulic brake equipped trailers, the breakaway brake
system includes a brake cable connected to the tow vehicle
on one end and to the emergency brake lever located on
the hydraulic actuator on the other end. Read and follow
the instructions in this manual as well as the instructions
by the hydraulic actuator manufacturer.
For electric brake equipped trailers, the breakaway brake
system includes a DC power source, a switch with a pull
pin, and a breakaway brake controller. You must periodically
charge the battery to keep the breakaway brake system
in working order. Read and follow the instructions in this
manual as well as the instructions by the breakaway brake
controller manufacturer.
„ Connect the pull pin cable to the tow vehicle so that the
pull pin will be pulled out before all of the slack in the
safety chains is taken up. Do not connect the pull pin
cable to a safety chain or to the hitch assembly. This
would keep the breakaway brake system from operating
when it is needed.
„ Remove the pull pin from the switch and test tow the
trailer at less than 5 mph. You should feel the trailer
resisting being towed, but the wheels will not necessarily
be locked. If the brakes do not function, do not tow the
trailer until brakes are repaired.
„ Immediately replace the pull pin. The breakaway brake
system battery discharges rapidly when the pull pin is
removed.
warning
An ineffective breakaway brake system can result in a
runaway trailer, leading to death or serious injury, if the
coupler or hitch fails.
NOTICE
Do not tow the trailer with the breakaway brake system
on because the brakes will overheat which can result
in permanent brake failure.
warning
Failure to replace the pull pin will prevent brakes from
working, leading to loss of control, serious injury or
death.
„ If you do not use your trailer for three or more months,
or during winter months, you must charge the generator
battery every month.
„ Replace the breakaway brake battery at intervals
specified by manufacturer.
Connecting the electrical Cables
Connect the trailer lights to the tow vehicle’s electrical
system using the electrical connectors. Refer to Wiring
Diagram.
1. Check all lights for proper operation:
a. Clearance and Running Lights (Turn on tow vehicle
headlights).
b. Brake Lights (Step on tow vehicle brake pedal).
c. Turn Signals (Operate tow vehicle directional
signal lever).
d. Backup Lights (Put tow vehicle gear shift into
reverse).
2. Check electric brakes for proper operation. If your
trailer has electric brakes, your tow vehicle will have
an electric brake controller that sends power to the
trailer brakes.
Before towing the trailer on the road, you must operate
the brake controller while trying to pull the trailer in
order to confirm that the electric brakes operate.
While towing the trailer at less than 5 mph, manually
operate the electric brake controller in the tow vehicle
cab. You should feel the operation of the trailer brakes.
uncoupling Hitch with tongue Jack
1. Block trailer tires to prevent the trailer from rolling,
before jacking the trailer up.
2. Disconnect the electrical connector.
3. Disconnect the breakaway brake switch cable. Promptly
replace the pull pin in the switchbox.
warning
Improper electrical connection between the tow vehicle
and the trailer will result in inoperable lights and electric
brakes, and can lead to collision.