Airstream classic 2006 Owner's Manual page 14

TOWING
The second check requires using the manual override lever on the tow vehicle controller.
Position a second person near the ActiBrake. With the ignition switch turn on, keeping
the vehicle in Park (or not in gear with the parking brake engaged) and stationary,
B
move the manual override lever of the brake controller. The person near the ActiBrake
will hear the motor engage if the tow vehicle and trailer are properly connected. If the
ActiBrake does not function, immediately discontinue operation.
Determining and Setting Proper Trailer Braking Force
Become Familiar with Braking of the Coupled Tow Vehicle and Trailer.
After the system installation has been verified, the operator should take the trailer to
an empty parking lot to become familiar with the operation of the braking action of the
combined tow vehicle-trailer. Each driver has different driving habits, and each vehicle
has unique braking characteristics. Each potential driver of the coupled tow vehicle
and trailer should take some time to familiarize themselves with the response and
handling of the trailer using various settings on the tow vehicle controller. Each driver
must be familiar with the operation of the tow vehicle brake controller and understand
how to make adjustments to achieve the most desirable braking force.
Brake Controller Signal Determines Trailer Brake Pressure
Trailer braking pressure is controlled by the use of a tow vehicle brake controller. This
allows the driver to select the desired brake performance for the trailer, from the driver's
position in the towing vehicle. Increasing or decreasing the "gain" setting of the tow
vehicle brake controller, will increase or decrease the level of brake force generated by
the ActiBrake unit. Refer to brake controller manufacturer's manual for instructions to
properly adjust the controller settings.
Which Tow vehicle Controller Is Best?
The ActiBrake will operate in conjunction with any state-of-the-art tow vehicle brake
controller. A controller that obtains its signal directly from the towing vehicle's braking
system is preferred. A high quality inertia based controller using accelerometer
technology is second preference. Third preference is a high quality inertia based
controller using a pendulum to sense deceleration.
NOTE: Active Technology does not endorse the use of time-based tow vehicle
controllers with the ActiBrake system. The output of a time-based controller is not
proportional to the deceleration of the towing vehicle and therefore, when linked to
a time-based tow vehicle controller, ActiBrake will not generate proportional brake
pressure.
Settings and Use of Tow vehicle Controllers
The settings of the tow vehicle controller are set by the driver. When properly set, the
braking force of the trailer will provide sufficient braking so the brakes of the towing
vehicle are not required to provide any braking force for the trailer. Variations in the
controller settings may be required for different road conditions and for changes in
trailer load. It is essential to maintain sufficient braking on the trailer on wet or slippery
road surfaces. More braking with the trailer will help prevent the possibility of a jack-
knife situation or prevent the trailer from swaying or pushing the towing vehicle. The
tow vehicle brake controller also allows for manual activation of the trailer brakes
independent of the tow vehicle, by using the manual override feature of the controller.
WARNING:
It is essential that each driver read and fully understand the
tow vehicle brake controller operating manual provided by the manufacturer of the tow
vehicle brake controller. Failure to fully understand the use and operation of the tow
vehicle brake controller by each driver may cause loss of vehicle control. This may
result in physical injury and/or property damage!
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