Tie Down 125 Alien Actuator User Manual
Page 2
RATED CAPACITY:
Maximum Actuator Capacity: 12,500 lbs. Gross Load; 1250 lbs. maximum tongue load; minimum tongue
weight is 5% of GVWR.
The actual in-service rating is limited to that of the ball and hitch or the least rated component on the tow vehicle or trailer 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 125 will accept 2-5/16” trailer hitch balls with a 12,500# 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 breakaway cable S-hook to the safety cables or chains.
5. The breakaway system is designed to operate only after the trailer detaches from the tow vehicle and the safety cable/chains have
disconnected from the tow vehicle. 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 slot of the emergency stop
release bracket under the actuator and pry up to release. See page 8 for instructions.
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. Automatic “Free-Backing” (backing-up without braking action) is possible with this
Actuator when supplied with an electrically operated “Reverse Lock-Out Solenoid”
or coupled with “Free-Backing” drum brakes. To allow “Free-Backing”
without either of those components installed the Operator must manually
“Lock-Out” the Actuator movement while backing up. This is accomplished by
placing a 7/16 X 5” long bolt (or comparable screwdriver) through the upper
holes provided through the actuator housing (see right illustration).
Danger: Failure to remove the bolt/screwdriver after backing will cause
no braking action in normal use. Remember to always remove the
bolt/screwdrive after backing the trailer.
10.
Important: The supplied, cable tethered, “Safety Pin” must be installed in
the Coupler Latch hole (see right illustration) during 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 125 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. Excessive actuator travel (shown by coupler roller path) may indicate 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
the adjusters on drum brakes from locked position, as required. Adjust Free-Backing brakes by rotating wheel in forward direction only.
Failure to adjust may result in loss of braking. Disc brakes do not require adjustment, check for pad wear periodically.
7. 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.
Lock Out Access
Safety Pin
Location