Tie Down 700 Brake Actuator User Manual
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4. Check with your state motor vehicle department for laws concerning minimum trailer brake requirements. Some states may require
brakes on all axles.
5. Road test trailer a short distance to activate the actuator several times. Check fluid level again. Remember, low brake fluid levels will
result in hitch ball knocking.
6. 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: G.V.W.R. 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 G.V.W.R..
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 ball clip on the side of the
actuator and pry outwards to release. See the last page for details.
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.