Tie Down 85E Actuator - Manual (Page 2)

Each wheel cylinder must be bled 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
approximately 3/8” below the top of the reservoir and filler cap is securely in place.
5. Check with your state motor vehicle department for laws concerning minimum trailer brake requirements. Some states may require
brakes on all axles.
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 approximately 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: 8500 lbs. Gross Load, 850 lbs. Maximum Tongue Load.
Minimum tongue weight is 5 percent of the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of the trailer.
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 85 will accept 2-5/16” trailer hitch balls with a 8500# capacity only. Trailer balls larger than 2-5/16” or out of round will not fit the
coupler or may result in coupler failure. Balls smaller than 2-5/16” can cause shock loading and sudden disconnection. Make certain ball
latch is in correct position to retain the hitch ball. Push latch lever back until safety latch engages plate below lever latch. Always 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 cable/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 outside 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 reverse trailer movement when braking is 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 coupler 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 approx. 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. The model 80 is equipped with two “Super Lube” pins to provide grease to the inner rollers. Use a grease gun to lubricate the
rollers through the grease fittings provided, every 6 months. For heavy use, grease every 3 months.
3. To extend coupler and ball life, coat both with a thin coating of grease. This will also eliminate squeaking. Wipe clean and renew
grease film each time trailer is used.
4. Examine the actuator for bent parts or wear each time the trailer is used. Replace parts as necessary.
5. There are no user adjustments on the actuator.
6. 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