Tie Down 70E - Manual (Page 2)

Loosen the bleeder screw located in the wheel cylinder one turn, the system is now open to the atmosphere. The bleeding operation
for that brake is complete when bubbling stops. Be sure to tighten bleeder screw securely. Each wheel cylinder must be bleed until all air
is out of the lines. Replenish the brake fluid during the bleeding process so the level does not fall below half full level in the master
cylinder reservoir. When bleeding and testing is completed, make sure master cylinder is filled to 3/8” below the top of the reservoir and
filler cap is securely in place.
5. When using drum or disc brakes on tandem axle trailers, both axles must be installed with brakes, Failure to install brakes on both
axles will result in loss of braking performance, overheating of brakes & wheel hub, and significantly reduce brake pad life.
6. Road test trailer a short distance to activate the actuator several times. This will fill the reservoir of the master cylinders shock dampening
system. Check fluid level again. Remember, low brake fluid levels will result in hitch ball knocking.
7. When testing is completed, make sure master cylinder is filled to 3/8” below the top of the reservoir and filler cap is securely in place.
Road test again to make sure brakes work properly.
RATED CAPACITY: Maximum Actuator Capacity: 7000 lbs. Gross Load, 660 lbs. Maximum Tongue Load
The actual in-service rating is limited to that of the ball and hitch being used or the trailer manufacturer’s G.V.W.R. shown on the
certification label, whichever is lower (Note: GVWR is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating which includes the trailer and the load
weight as a Total Gross Weight).
HITCHING TRAILER
1. The vehicle, towing hitch and ball must have a rating equal to or greater than trailer GVWR.
2. Model 70 will accept 2” trailer hitch balls only. Trailer balls larger than 2.00” or out of round will not fit the coupler or may result in
coupler failure. Balls smaller than 1.970” can cause shock loading and sudden disconnection. Make certain ball latch is in correct
position to retain the hitch ball. Push latch back until safety latch engages plate below latch. Insert safety pin into forward hole as a
safety lock for the hitch ball coupler prior to towing. Do not tow trailer if coupler is damaged.
3. Connect safety cables or chains using crossed pattern under tongue, or follow trailer manufacturer’s directions.
4. Connect actuator breakaway cable S-hook to the tow vehicle only. Do not connect S-hook to the safety cables or chains.
5. The breakaway system is designed to only operate after the trailer detaches from the tow vehicle and the safety chains have failed. The
breakaway is not a parking brake. Do not use as such.
6. If the breakaway is accidentally applied while un-hitching, insert a flat bladed screwdriver into the spring clip slotted hole under the
actuator and pry down to release.
7. Any control devices that restrict operation of the actuator cannot be used. This includes certain sway control devices. The actuator must
be free to telescope in response to braking requirements.
8. Equalizing or weight distributing hitches may be used, allow six to eight inches free chain length.
DANGER: Tongue weight beyond rating limits will interfere with performance of actuator, and braking system, and the tow vehicle.
9. The actuator is designed for use with Free-Backing trailer brakes. To block braking action, (in order to back up) with other types of
brakes, use an electric solenoid. For trailer movement when brakes are not required, place the safety pin in the upper hole on the side
of the actuator to block movement of the actuator. DANGER: Failure to remove pin will also prevent forward braking. Pin must be in
the lower, forward hole as a safety lock for the hitch ball coupler latch when towing at all times.
MAINTENANCE
1. Always check the brake fluid reservoir before using trailer. Make sure it is at least half full. If not, re-fill to 3/8 inch below the top of
the reservoir with DOT 3 brake fluid. Check for leaks and repair as required. Never reuse brake fluid.
2. To extend coupler and ball life, coat both with a thin coating of grease. This will also eliminate squeaking. Wipe clean and renew
film each time trailer is used.
3. Examine the actuator for bent parts or wear each time the trailer is used. Replace parts as necessary.
4. There are no user adjustments on the actuator.
5. Actuator travel (shown by coupler roller path) over one inch indicates a need to adjust the brakes or add fluid to the reservoir or a
need to bleed the brakes and check connections for leaks. Adjust per instructions found in brake installation manual. In general,
back-off adjusters on drum brakes from locked position, as required. Adjust Free-Backing brakes by rotating in forward direction
only. Failure to adjust may result in loss of braking. Disc brakes do not require adjustment, check for pad wear.
6. While towing, if the actuator appears to be knocking against the hitch ball while starting or stopping, check brake fluid reservoir
and fill if below 3/8” full from the top. Dampening shock absorber requires sufficient brake fluid in order to retard movement
against hitch ball during towing.