BRAKE MAINTENANCE
Before towing, check that the brake fluid reservoir is
maintained to at least half full. If not refill with DOT 3
brake fluid. Check complete system for any leaks and
repair as needed. Examine actuator for bent parts or
excessive wear. Straighten or replace any worn parts
as needed. Check to see that all mounting bolts and
fasteners are tight.
Excessive actuator travel (over one inch) is a sign that
the brakes need to be adjusted. Jack wheel/tire off of
the ground and rotate tire in the forward direction.
Remove access hole cover plate on the lower back
side of the backing plate and adjust the brakes until
drag is felt on the wheel when spinning in the forward
direction. Back off adjuster twenty clicks (notches) for
two-wheel brake systems and fifteen clicks (notches)
for four wheel brake systems. Adjust all wheels being
sure to rotate in the forward direction only when
adjusting to ensure proper adjustment.
ANY CORROSIVE
MATERIALS (SALTWATER, FERTILIZERS) ARE
DESTRUCTIVE TO METALS. TO PROPERLY
MAINTAIN THE LIFE OF THE BRAKE SYSTEM
FLUSHING WITH A HIGH-PRESSURE WATER
HOSE IS RECOMMENDED. AFTER WASHING BE
SURE TO GREASE ACTUATOR BEARINGS
(SLIDES) AND OIL ALL MOVING PARTS. AT THE
END OF THE SEASON IT IS RECOMMENDED
THAT THE BRAKE DRUMS BE REMOVED AND
CLEANED INSIDE. REPACK WHEEL BEARINGS
BEING CAREFUL NOT TO CONTAMINATE THE
BRAKE SYSTEM WITH GREASE. THIS WOULD
BE A GOOD TIME TO READJUST THE BRAKES
PER PREVIOUS INSTRUCTIONS.
BLEEDING OF BRAKES
Before bleeding brakes fill the system with DOT 3
hydraulic brake fluid. Using a vacuum type brake
bleeder (this type of brake bleeder is available at your
local automotive store) follow manufacturers
directions for bleeding.
Install bleeder hose on first wheel cylinder to be bled,
if tandem bleed rear axles first. Have loose end of
hose submerged in a glass container of brake fluid to
observe bubbling. By working the manual hand pump
you will draw the air out of the brake lines filling it with
fluid.
By loosening the bleeder screw located in the wheel
cylinder one turn the system is open to the
atmosphere through the passage drilled in the screw.
When the bubbling stops in the glass container close
the bleeder screw securely. Follow the same
procedure at each wheel cylinder being sure to
maintain the master cylinder fluid level at least one
half full of brake fluid. After all wheels are bled fill the
master cylinder to 3/8” below the full level.
Before using any equipment equipped with brakes the
operation of the brakes should be checked. During
travel attention should be paid to how the brakes are
functioning and any necessary adjustments should be
made. It will be necessary to check the brake lines
and brake linings for wear. Brake linings should be
replaced before the rivets or support plates come in
contact with the wheel drum. Make all necessary
maintenance before using equipment.
Tandem Trailer Page 13
TIRE INFLATION
TIRE SIZE PLY PSI
11L-15 836
12.5L-15 836
12.5L-15 12 52
14L-16 12 44
16.5L-16 10 36
19LX16.1 10 32
21.5L-16.1 18 44
11R/22.5 used truck 75
425/65X22.5 used truck 75
28L-26 16 28
600/50X22.5 HS 16 52
600/50X22.5 I3 16 87