Table of Contents

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Bri-Mar Trailers
MODEL D
This User's Manual contains safety information
and instructions for your trailer.
You must read this manual before loading or
towing your trailer.
You must follow all safety precautions and
instructions.
BWise Manufacturing LLC
1002 Wayne Avenue, Suite 1
Chambersburg, PA 17201
1-717-261-0922 Phone
1-717-264-5581 Fax
Revised January 2010
T
UMP
RAILERS

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Table of Contents
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Summary of Contents for Bri-Mar DT508LP

  • Page 1 Bri-Mar Trailers MODEL D RAILERS This User’s Manual contains safety information and instructions for your trailer. You must read this manual before loading or towing your trailer. You must follow all safety precautions and instructions. BWise Manufacturing LLC 1002 Wayne Avenue, Suite 1...
  • Page 2 Please pay particular attention to the boxes throughout this manual highlighting certain caution (yellow), warning (orange) and danger (red) situations.
  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    ............. 28 RAILER NFORMATION – T ..... 29 TEPS FOR ETERMINING ORRECT IMIT RAILER 3.2.1 Trailers 10,000 Pounds GVWR or Less ........31 3.2.2 Trailers Over 10,000 Pounds GVWR ........31 – T ..32 TEPS FOR ETERMINING ORRECT IMIT EHICLE Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 4 Uncoupling a Bumper Pull Trailer ..........69 4.2.8 Gooseneck Trailer with Ball Coupler or King Pin ....70 4.2.8.1 Prepare the Gooseneck Receiver............ 73 4.2.8.2 Couple the Trailer to the Tow Vehicle........... 73 4.2.8.3 Rig the Safety Chains..............75 Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 5 8.2.3 Trailer Brakes - Electric ............121 8.2.3.1 Brake Shoes and Drums ...............121 8.2.3.2 Manually Adjusting Brake Shoes ..........121 8.2.3.3 Trailer Brakes - Electric ...............122 8.2.3.4 Tow Vehicle Operated Electric Brakes ........123 8.2.3.5 Magnets for all Electric Brakes ............123 Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 6 Accessory DC Power Unit............. 129 8.2.9.1 DC Power Unit Maintenance ............130 8.2.9.2 DC Power Unit Troubleshooting..........131 8.2.10 Tires..................132 8.2.11 Wheel Rims ................133 8.2.12 Wheel Bearings..............133 8.2.13 Lubrication Points ..............134 8.2.14 Lug Nuts (Bolts)..............136 ELECTRICAL DRAWINGS..............138 Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 7: Introduction / General Information

    NFORMATION 1.1 T RAILER ODELS Dump Trailer Models: Deck Over • DT610-DP Low Profile • DT712-DP • DT712T-DP • DT508LP • DT610LP-LE • DT610D-LE • DT510LP • DT612LP-LE • DT610LP • DT712LP-LE R Series (Rascal) • DT612LP • DT714LP-LE • DTR508LP •...
  • Page 8: Adjust Brake Shoes At First 200 Miles

    Read your axle and brake manual to see if your brakes adjust automatically. If you do not have the axle and brake manual, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 for a free copy. A hard stop is used to: •...
  • Page 9: Tire Pressure

    To insure safe brake performance and synchronization, read and follow the axle/brake and the brake controller manufacturers’ instructions. If you do not have an axle & brake manual, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 for a free copy. 1.2.4 Tire Pressure Check tire pressures on both the trailer and tow vehicle.
  • Page 10 This warranty shall not extend to: damage to towing vehicle, or customer dissatisfaction. Bri-mar Manufacturing, LLC reserves the right to make changes in • Equipment which has been modified, repaired, or altered in any way design and specifications at any time, without incurring any obligation to without express written consent of BWise Manufacturing.
  • Page 11: General Safety Information

    Some of these items have separate instruction manuals. Where this manual indicates that you should read another manual, and you do not have that manual, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 for more information. The safety information in this manual is denoted by the safety alert symbol: The level of risk is indicated by the following signal words.
  • Page 12: Major Hazards

    Owner’s Manual. ^ Danger Use of an under-rated hitch, ball or tow vehicle can result in loss of control leading to death or serious injury. Make certain your hitch and tow vehicle are rated for your trailer. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 13: Driving Too Fast

    • When encountering trailer sway take your foot off the gas, and steer as little as possible in order to stay on the road. Use small “trim-like” steering adjustments. Do not attempt to steer out of the sway; you’ll Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 14: Trailer Not Properly Coupled To The Hitch

    Observe the hitch for wear, corrosion and cracks before coupling. • Replace worn, corroded or cracked hitch components before coupling the trailer to the tow vehicle. Be sure the hitch components are tight before coupling the trailer to • the tow vehicle. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 15: Proper Use Of Safety Chains

    Cross chains underneath hitch and coupler with enough slack to • permit turning and to hold tongue up, if the trailer comes loose. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 16: Proper Connection Of Breakaway Brake

    Use of a tow vehicle with a towing capacity less than the load rating of the trailer can result in loss of control, and may lead to death or serious injury. Be sure your hitch and tow vehicle are rated for the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your trailer. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 17: Unsafe Tire, Lug Nuts Or Wheels

    Make sure of proper tire pressure before towing trailer. Inflate tires to pressure stated on the Certification / VIN label. The tightness of the lug nuts is very important in keeping the wheels properly seated to the hub. Before each tow, check to make sure they are tight. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 18 Check lug nuts for tightness on a new trailer, and after re-mounting a wheel at 10, 25 and 50 miles. ARNING Inadequate lug nut torque can cause a wheel separating from the trailer, leading to death or serious injury can result. Be sure lug nuts are tight before each tow. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 19: Improper Loading

    (Gross Trailer Weight, or “GTW”) that should appear on the tongue of the trailer. For example, a trailer with a gooseneck hitch, with a loaded weight of 12,000 Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 20: Shifting Cargo

    Distribute the load evenly, right and left. • Keep the center of gravity low. • 2.2.11 Shifting Cargo Since the trailer “ride” can be bumpy and rough, you must secure your cargo so that it does not shift while the trailer is being towed. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 21: Inappropriate Cargo

    ARNING Do not transport flammable, explosive, poisonous or other dangerous materials in your trailer. The exception is fuel in the tank of a vehicle or equipment being hauled. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 22: Inoperable Brakes, Lights Or Mirrors

    • Check that the electric brakes work by operating the brake controller inside the tow vehicle. Standard mirrors usually do not provide adequate visibility for viewing traffic to the sides and rear a towed trailer. You must provide mirrors that allow you to safely observe approaching traffic. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 23: Hazards From Modifying Your Trailer

    A soft and/or uneven surface may cause the tow vehicle and trailer to tip over when the dump body is raised. Raise the dump body ONLY if the tow vehicle and trailer are both on a firm and level surface. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 24: Hazards From Accessories

    2.2.16 Hazards from Accessories The “Accessories” chapter of this manual contains some information about certain optional accessories that may be on your trailer. Read and follow all of these instructions before operating the accessories. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 25: Battery And Charger

    A DC hydraulic power unit is used on powered dump trailers. The hydraulic system is under extreme pressure. Pressure will be in the hydraulic cylinder(s) and line(s) even when the power unit is not operating. Never disconnect a hydraulic line or fitting without first Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 26 Reconnect the battery in reverse order to prevent tools from contacting the frame and short circuiting the battery. Please contact Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC for service information on your power unit. Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate the skin causing serious injury.
  • Page 27: Safety Warning Labels On Your Trailer

    General Safety Information 2.2.17 Safety Warning Labels on Your Trailer Figure 2-1. Bumper Pull Safety Warning Label Locations. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 28 General Safety Information Figure 2-2. Gooseneck Safety Warning Label Locations. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 29: Trailer Towing Guide

    To protect you and others against death or serious injury, all of the labels shown must be on the trailer and must be legible. If any of these labels are missing or cannot be read, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 for free replacement labels.
  • Page 30: Safe Trailer Towing Guidelines

    • Use your turn signals well in advance. • Allow plenty of stopping space for your trailer and tow vehicle. • Do not drive so fast that the trailer begins to sway due to speed. Generally never drive faster than 60 m.p.h. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 31: Reporting Safety Defects

    However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or us. To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Vehicle Safety Hotline toll- free at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153), go to Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 32 General Safety Information http://www.safercar.gov; or write to: Administrator, NHTSA, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from http://www.safercar.gov. Call 1-717-263-6116 to reach Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 33: Tire Safety Information

    • Measuring and adjusting air pressure for proper inflation. • Tire Care, including maintenance and safety practices. • Vehicle load limits, including a description and explanation of the following items: • Locating and understanding the load limit information, total load capacity, and cargo capacity. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 34: Trailer Tire Information

    This is because molecules of air, under pressure, weave their way from the inside of the tire, through the rubber, to the outside. A drop in tire pressure could cause the tire to become overloaded, leading Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 35: Steps For Determining Correct Load Limit - Trailer

    This placard provides tire and loading information. In addition, this placard will show a statement regarding maximum cargo capacity. Cargo can be added to the trailer, up to the maximum weight specified on the placard. The combined weight of the cargo is provided as a single Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 36 It is the air pressure that enables a tire to support the load, so proper inflation is critical. The proper air pressure may be found on the Certification / VIN label and/or on the Tire Placard. This value should never exceed the maximum cold inflation pressure stamped on the tire. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 37: Trailers 10,000 Pounds Gvwr Or Less

    VIN (Certification) label. 3. Subtract the empty weight of your trailer from the GVWR stated on the VIN label. That weight is the maximum available cargo capacity of the trailer and may not be safely exceeded. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 38: Steps For Etermining Orrect Oad Imit Ow Ehicle

    The part of the tire that is made of steel wires, wrapped or reinforced by ply cords and that is shaped to fit the rim. Bead separation This is the breakdown of the bond between components in the bead. Bias ply tire Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 39 Extra load tire A tire designed to operate at higher loads and at higher inflation pressures than the corresponding standard tire. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 40 A tire designated by its manufacturer as primarily intended for use on lightweight trucks or multipurpose passenger vehicles. May be used on trailers. Load rating The maximum load that a tire is rated to carry for a given inflation pressure. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 41 Non-pneumatic tire assembly A non-pneumatic tire, alone or in combination with a wheel or wheel center member, which can be mounted on a vehicle. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 42 Production options weight The combined weight of those installed regular production options weighing over 2.3 kilograms (5 lbs.) in excess of those standard items which they replace, not previously considered in curb weight or Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 43 This means the nominal distance between rim flanges. Section width The linear distance between the exteriors of the sidewalls of an inflated tire, excluding elevations due to labeling, decoration, or protective bands. Sidewall That portion of a tire between the tread and bead. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 44 The load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of the curb weight, accessory weight, and normal occupant weight (distributed in accordance with Table I of CRF 49 571.110) and dividing by 2. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 45: Tire Safety - Everything Rides O N It

    These actions, along with other care and maintenance activities, can also: • Improve vehicle handling • Help protect you and others from avoidable breakdowns and accidents • Improve fuel economy Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 46: Safety First-Basic Tire Maintenance

    • Front and rear gross axle weight ratings (GAWR– the maximum weight the axle systems are designed to carry). Both placards and certification labels are permanently attached to the trailer near the left front. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 47: Understanding Tire Pressure And Load Limits

    The term cold does not relate to the outside temperature. Rather, a cold tire is one that has not been driven on for at least three hours. When you drive, your tires get Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 48: Steps For Maintaining Proper Tire Pressure

    Look at the tire information placard, the owner's manual, or the sidewall of the tire you are replacing to find this information. If you have any doubt about the correct size to choose, consult with the tire dealer. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 49: Tire Tread

    Federal law requires tire manufacturers to place standardized information on the sidewall of all tires. This information identifies and describes the fundamental characteristics of the tire and also provides a tire identification number for safety standard certification and in case of a recall. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 50: Information On Passenger Vehicle Tires

    The "R" stands for radial. Radial ply construction of tires has been the industry standard for the past 20 years. Next number This two-digit number is the wheel or rim diameter in inches. If you Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 51 186 mph, tire manufacturers always use the letters U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number This begins with the letters "DOT" and indicates that the tire meets all federal standards. The next two numbers or letters are the plant code Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 52: Utqgs Information

    Excessive speed, underinflation or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat build-up and possible tire failure. From highest to lowest, a tire's resistance to heat is graded as "A", "B", or "C". Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 53: Additional Information On Light Truck Tires

    (a total of six or more tires on the vehicle). Max. Load Single kg (lbs) at kPa (psi) Cold This information indicates the maximum load and tire pressure when the tire is used as a single. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 54: Tire Safety Tips

    • Make sure your tire valves have valve caps. • Check tire pressure before going on a long trip. • Do not overload your vehicle. Check the Tire Information Placard or Owner’s Manual for the maximum recommended load for the vehicle. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 55: Coupling To The Tow Vehicle

    Be sure your hitch and tow vehicle are rated for the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of your trailer. 4.1.1 Trailer Information Figure 4-1 shows the location of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) tag on your trailer. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 56 GVWR for the trailer, because some of the trailer load is carried by the tow vehicle, rather than by the trailer axle(s). The total weight of the cargo and trailer must not exceed the GVWR, and the load on an axle must not exceed its GAWR. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 57: Tow Vehicle

    However, the addition of additional equipment may further improve the tow vehicle performance. These may include adjustable air shocks, helper springs, etc. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 58 Fire Extinguisher: It is sensible to have a fire extinguisher in the tow vehicle. Emergency Flares and Emergency Triangle Reflectors: It is wise to carry these warning devices even if you are not towing a trailer. It is particularly important to have these when towing a trailer because the Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 59: Coupling And Uncoupling The Trailer

    Breakaway switch: If the trailer becomes de-coupled from the towing vehicle, the breakaway switch lanyard, attached independently to the tow vehicle hitch, will pull a pin in the emergency electrical break-away switch on the trailer. The breakaway switch is activated by a separate Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 60: Various Coupler Designs

    Trailers are produced with a variety of coupler devices. One of the sections below will pertain to your trailer. • Bumper Pull Ball Hitch Coupler • Bumper Pull Ball Hitch Coupler With Surge Brake • Bumper Pull Ring Coupler Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 61: Trailer With Ball-Hitch Coupler

    If the coupler on your trailer does not resemble one of the couplers shown in the figures, see the separate coupler instructions. If you do not have separate coupler instructions, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1- 800-732-5845 for a free copy.
  • Page 62 THE TRAILER Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT THE HITCH BALL BE OF THE SAME SIZE AS THE COUPLER. The ball size and load rating (capacity) are marked on the ball; hitch capacity is marked on the hitch. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 63: Before Coupling The Trailer To The Tow Vehicle

    • Be sure the coupler is tight to the tongue of the trailer. All coupler fasteners must be visibly solid against the trailer frame. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 64: Prepare The Coupler And Hitch

    • See the coupler instructions for details of placing the coupler in the “open” position. • Slowly back up the tow vehicle so that the hitch ball is near or aligned under the coupler. Figure 4-3 – Coupler Mechanism “Open” Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 65: Couple The Trailer To The Tow Vehicle

    1 inch. If the coupler cannot be secured to the hitch ball, do not tow the trailer. Call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 or your dealer for assistance. • Lower the trailer so that its entire tongue weight is held by the hitch, and continue retracting the jack to its fully retraced position.
  • Page 66: Before Coupling The Trailer To The Tow Vehicle

    4.2.3.1 Before Coupling The Trailer To The Tow Vehicle Be sure the size and rating of hitch pintle match the size and rating of the ring. Hitch ring and pintles are marked with their size and rating. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 67 A loose pintle can result in uncoupling, leading to death or serious injury. Make sure the pintle is tight to the hitch before coupling the trailer. • Raise the bottom surface of the ring to be above the top of the open pintle. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 68: Prepare The Ring And Pintle

    1 inch. If the pintle cannot be secured to the ring, do not tow the trailer. Call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC, at 1-717-263-6116 or your dealer for assistance. • Lower the trailer so that its entire tongue weight is held by the hitch, and continue retracting the jack to its fully retracted position.
  • Page 69: Rig The Safety Chains - Bumper Pull Trailer

    • Provide enough slack to permit tight turns, but not be close to the road surface to drag. See figure 4-5 or 4-6. Figure 4-5 – Safety Chain Arrangement W/O Surge Brakes Figure 4-6 – Safety Chain Arrangement W/ Surge Brakes Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 70: Connect The Electrical Cable - Bumper Pull Trailers

    While towing the trailer at less than 5 m.p.h., manually operate the electric brake controller in the tow vehicle cab. You should feel the operation of the trailer brakes. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 71: Attach And Test Electric Breakaway Brake System - Bumper Pull Trailers

    If the electrical system on your tow vehicle does not provide power to the breakaway brake battery, you must periodically charge the battery with a commercial battery charger to keep the breakaway brake system in working order. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 72 If the breakaway brake system is not working, do not tow the trailer. Have it serviced or repaired. Do not tow the trailer with the breakaway brake system ON because the brakes will overheat which can result in permanent brake failure. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 73: Attach And Test Surge Brake Breakaway Brake System

    See the Surge Brake service manual for the correct resetting procedure. ARNING The breakaway system is designed to operate ONLY if the trailer separates completely from the tow vehicle. DO NOT use the breakaway system as a parking brake. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 74: Testing The Surge Brake Operation (If Equipped)

    Disconnect the trailer from the tow vehicle and jack up the trailer's tongue until it is horizontal. Hook the trailer's safety chains (NOT the actuator's breakaway cable/chain) together to form a loop, which is centered below the Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 75: Uncoupling A Bumper Pull Trailer

    • Block trailer tires to prevent the trailer from rolling, before jacking the trailer up. • Disconnect the electrical connector. • Disconnect the breakaway brake switch lanyard or surge brake chain. • Disconnect the safety chains from the tow vehicle. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 76: Gooseneck Trailer With Ball Coupler Or King Pin

    See your fifth wheel instructions provided by the manufacturer for connecting, disconnecting and locking information. Figure 4-8 – Gooseneck Trailer With Ball Coupler Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 77 If the trailer jack on your trailer does not resemble the jack shown in the figures, follow the jack instructions provided by the jack manufacturer. If you do not have these instructions, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 for more information. Bri-Mar...
  • Page 78 • Rock the ball to make sure it is tight to the ball support, and visually check that the gooseneck ball nut is solid against the lock washer and ball support frame. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 79: Prepare The Gooseneck Receiver

    There must be no one under the trailer or coupler before or during the coupling operation. 4.2.8.2 Couple the Trailer to the Tow Vehicle • Rotate the jack handle counter-clockwise. This will retract the jack causing the receiver to drop down so it can fully engage the Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 80 1 inch. If the gooseneck ball cannot be secured to the receiver, do not tow the trailer. Call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 or your dealer for assistance. • After testing to see that the receiver is properly secured and locked to the ball, retract the jack to its fully retracted position.
  • Page 81: Rig The Safety Chains

    • Rig the safety chains so they have sufficient slack to permit turning, but not too much slack – the safety chains must keep the gooseneck on the tow vehicle bed if the trailer uncouples. Figure 4-10 – Proper Safety Chain Arrangement Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 82: Attach And Test The Breakaway Brake System

    Read and follow the instructions here as well as the instructions that have been prepared by the breakaway brake controller manufacturer. If you do not have these instructions, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 for more information. F F igure 4-11 – Connect Breakaway Brake Lanyard...
  • Page 83 Do not tow the trailer if the breakaway brake system is not working. Have it serviced or repaired. Do not tow the trailer with the breakaway brake system ON because the brakes will overheat which can result in permanent brake failure. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 84: Connect The Electrical Cable

    While towing the trailer at less than 5 m.p.h., manually operate the electric brake controller in the tow vehicle cab. You should feel the operation of the trailer brakes. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 85: Uncoupling The Gooseneck Trailer

    • Rotate the plunger pin handle so that the plunger pin is attempting to engage the drop leg. • Slowly raise your foot, permitting the drop leg to raise. The plunger pin will engage a hole in the drop leg. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 86 This shifts the gearbox into a high speed mode. • When the drop leg base contacts the ground, shift the gearbox into low speed mode by pulling out on the handle shaft until it locks into low gear. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 87: Adjust Hitch Height

    • Stand away from the trailer and visually verify if the trailer is level front-to-rear. If the front of the trailer is higher than the rear, the hitch must be raised. If the front of the trailer is lower than the rear, the hitch must be lowered. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 88 • Couple the trailer to the tow vehicle, verify that the trailer is level front to rear. Adjust if necessary. • Unload trailer (see Loading and Unloading The Trailer) and disconnect from tow vehicle (see Uncoupling a Bumper Pull Trailer). Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 89: Adjust Gooseneck Height

    If the front of the trailer is higher than the rear, the hitch must be retracted. If the front of the trailer is lower than the rear, the hitch must be extended. Uncouple trailer from tow vehicle (See Coupling To The Tow Vehicle). Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 90 Tighten jam nut to 80-90 lb. ft. of torque prevent bolt from loosening. Improper gooseneck height adjustment can result in overloaded tires, blowout and loss of control, leading to death or serious injury. Adjust the gooseneck receiver so that the trailer runs level. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 91: Loading And Unloading The Trailer

    The total weight of the trailer and its contents must never exceed the total weight rating of the trailer (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, or “GVWR”). Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 92 A soft and/or uneven surface may cause the tow vehicle and trailer to tip over when the dump body is raised. Raise the dump body ONLY if the tow vehicle and trailer are both on a firm and level surface. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 93: Tongue Weight

    If, for example, the tongue exerts an upward pull on the hitch, instead of pushing down on it (because the trailer is overloaded behind its axle(s)), the rear wheel of the Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 94 2,400 to 3,000 pounds on its tongue. Tongue Weight as a Percentage of Loaded Trailer Weight Type of Hitch Percentage 10–15% for large Ball Hitch (or Bumper Hitch) trailers Gooseneck Hitch 20–25% Fifth Wheel Hitch Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 95: Checking Tongue Weight

    For lighter trailers the recommended method of checking tongue weight is to use an accessory called a “tongue weight scale.” If a tongue weight scale is not available from your dealer, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 for assistance. An alternate method of checking tongue weight involves the use of a bathroom scale.
  • Page 96: Loading Fixed Loads

    ARNING Do not transport flammable, explosive, poisonous or other dangerous materials in your trailer. The exception is fuel in the tank of vehicles or equipment that are being hauled. • Inspect the “D” rings for any cracks. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 97 • Open and secure rear doors with pins. See figure 5-1. F F igure 5-1 – Secure Rear Doors • Release pins (1) on ramps. Pin in figure 5-2 is released. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 98 Use a safe lifting procedure to prevent personal injury when handling ramps. • Remove ramps from storage position and place bracket (2) on ramps, in channel on trailer. See figure 5-3. Position ramps as needed for the width of the equipment to be loaded. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 99 Place ramp lock pins (1) as shown on each ramp to lock ramps in storage position. See figure 5-4. • The tarp rail on trailers so equipped is to be used only to secure a cover for any materials or equipment in transport. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 100 • Remove ramps and place in storage position. Be carefully not to pinch fingers when sliding ramps in. • Place ramp lock pins (1) as shown on each ramp to lock ramps in storage position. See figure 5-4. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 101: Loading And Unloading Bulk Materials

    However, fuel in the tank of vehicles or equipment may be carried in the dump trailer. ARNING Do not transport flammable, explosive, poisonous or other dangerous materials in your trailer. The exception is fuel in the tank of vehicles or equipment that are being hauled. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 102: Loading Bulk Material

    • Use common sense when loading. If you are uncertain of the weight of the material, load a small amount and weigh your trailer. It is Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 103: Unload Bulk Material Using The Spreader Gate

    An overloaded trailer can cause the hydraulic system to malfunction, resulting in the dump body falling. A load that is improperly distributed in the trailer can result in the trailer overturning when the dump body is raised. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 104 • Install metering chains (2) as shown in figure 5-6. Set the metering chains at the desired number of links to control the opening distance of the spreader gate. Be sure to set both chains at equal length. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 105 Be sure there are no overhead power lines over or near the trailer before raising dump body. Danger A lowering or falling dump body can result in death or serious injury. NEVER enter the area under the dump body unless the empty dump body is supported by the body safety prop. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 106 Never leave the dump body control when operating the dump body. See figure 5- F F igure 5-7 - Remote or Pendent Dump Controller Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 107: Unload Bulk Material Using The Double Swing Gates

    • Read and understand the hoist operating procedure before dumping the load. • Be sure the trailer is on level ground, both side-to-side and front-to- rear. Attempting to unload on uneven ground may cause the trailer to overturn, which can result in death or serious injury. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 108 Stand away from the trailer to unlatch spreader gate. • Clear the area around the dump trailer. • Open and secure rear doors with pins. See figure 5-8. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 109 Risk of electrocution. Dump body coming near or contacting power lines may result in electrocution. Electrocution can occur without contact. Be sure there are no overhead power lines over or near the trailer before raising dump body. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 110 • Standing well clear of the dump body in a safe location, push and hold the up button (1) on the control until the dump body reaches approximately the halfway point of its dumping angle. Never leave the control when operating the dump body. See figure 5-9 Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 111 “shock” the load out of the body. Also DO NOT “jerk” the control button up and down to dislodge the load. The proper procedure for a stuck load is to lower the dump and dislodge the material by hand. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 112: Hydraulic Components

    DO NOT use the body safety prop to support a loaded dump body. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 113 Park the trailer on a firm and level surface. Raise the dump body and hold the body safety prop (1) in the upright position. Lower the dump body so the body safety prop engages the socket on the dump body. See figure 5-10. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 114: Securing The Cargo

    Shifting cargo can result loss of control of the trailer, and can lead to death or serious injury. Tie down all loads with proper sized fasteners, ropes, straps, etc. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 115: Checking The Trailer Before And During Each Tow

    • Check fuses in battery box. One fuse is for the electric breakaway brake and the other is for the DC power unit. 6.2 M EGULAR TOPS After each 50 miles, or one hour of towing, stop and check the following items: • Coupler secured Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 116 Checking The Trailer Before And During Each Tow • Safety chains are fastened and not dragging • Cargo secured • Cargo door latched and secured • Tires are not visibly low or flat Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 117: Accessories

    You must read and follow these instructions before using the accessory. If you are uncertain whether you have all of the instructions, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 before operating the accessory. The following accessories are described in this section: •...
  • Page 118: Battery Charger

    Have the cord replaced. The charger contains an electronic control that safeguards against overcharging the battery. You may observe the following conditions during charging operations: Light Color On / Off Condition Green No power. Check wall receptacle for 120 volts. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 119: Dc Hydraulic Power Unit

    Never disconnect a hydraulic line or fitting without first supporting the empty dump body using the body safety prop. Refer to the service section for additional information on this unit. Please contact Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC for service information on your power unit.
  • Page 120 Fluid under pressure can pierce the skin and enter the bloodstream • causing death or severe injury. Dump body must be supported by body safety prop to prevent • movement while being inspected, serviced or repaired. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 121: Inspection

    You must inspect, maintain and service your trailer regularly to insure safe and reliable operation. If you cannot or are unsure how to perform the items listed here, have your dealer do them. Note: In addition to this manual, also check the relevant component manufacturer's manual. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 122 Check for wear and Sections 4.2.4 & 4.2.8.3 damage Tires Check tire pressure Sections 6.1 & 8.2.10 when cold. Inflate as needed. Wheels - Lug Nuts Check for tightness Section 6.1 (Bolts) & Hub Tighten. For new and Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 123 Section 8.2.3.4 vehicle) Check power output See Controller Mfr’s (amperage) and Manual modulation Tires Inspect tread and Section 8.2.10 sidewalls thoroughly. Replace tire when treads Section 8.2.10 are worn, when sidewall has a bulge, or sidewall is worn Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 124: Inspection And Service Instructions

    To perform many of the inspection and maintenance activities, you must jack up the trailer. When jacking and using jack stands, place them so as to clear wiring, brake lines, and suspension parts (springs, torsion bars, etc.). Place jacks and jack stands under the outer frame rail. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 125: Trailer Structure

    To prevent severe damage to your trailer, inspect all of the welds for cracks or failure at least once a year. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 126: Slide-Out Ramps

    “hard braked” from a rearward direction. Read your axle and brake manual to see how to adjust your brakes. If you do not have this manual, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 for a free copy. 8.2.3.2 Manually Adjusting Brake Shoes Some braking systems are not automatically adjusted by hard stopping.
  • Page 127: Trailer Brakes - Electric

    Inspection, Service and Maintenance manual to see how to adjust your brakes. If you do not have this manual, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 for a free copy. • Jack up the trailer and secure it on adequate capacity jack stands.
  • Page 128: Tow Vehicle Operated Electric Brakes

    If you do not have an axle and brake manual, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 for a free copy. 8.2.3.5 Magnets for all Electric Brakes To make certain an electrically-operated braking system will function properly, you must have your dealer inspect the magnets at least once a year, or each 12,000 miles.
  • Page 129: Master Cylinder Bleeding

    Grease every 5000 miles or 90 days of use. See the surge brake manufacturer’s manual for other inspection and maintenance activities. If you do not have this manual, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 for a copy. 8.2.4.2 Master Cylinder Bleeding Remove the master cylinder's cap and fill the reservoir to three quarters full with DOT-3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
  • Page 130 The filler cap only needs to be finger tight. Use only fresh brake fluid from a sealed container. DO NOT reuse fluid. After filling and bleeding, refill the actuator. Failure to maintain an adequate fluid level may cause brake failure. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 131: Trailer Connection To Tow Vehicle

    See the coupler manufacturer’s manual for other inspection and maintenance activities. If you do not have this manual, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 for more information. If you see or feel evidence of wear, such as flat spots, deformations,...
  • Page 132: Gooseneck

    Inspection, Service and Maintenance See the pintle manufacturer’s manual for other inspection and maintenance activities. If you do not have this manual, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 for more information. If you see or feel evidence of wear, such as flat spots, deformations,...
  • Page 133: Fifth Wheel Kingpin

    See the manual prepared by the manufacturer of the fifth wheel and kingpin for other inspection and maintenance activities. If you do not have this manual, call Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC at 1-717-263-6116 for more information. 8.2.6 Landing Leg or Jack If a grease fitting is present, you must use a grease gun to lubricate the jack mechanism.
  • Page 134: Accessory Dc Power Unit

    Reconnect the battery in reverse order to prevent tools from contacting the frame and short circuiting the battery. Please contact Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC for service information on your power unit. Bri-Mar...
  • Page 135: Dc Power Unit Maintenance

    Dump body must be supported by body safety prop to prevent • movement while being inspected, serviced or repaired. Bri-Mar Manufacturing LLC uses a single acting cylinder on most trailers. Some trailers are equipped with a double acting cylinder. Refer to the proper schematics when servicing your trailer.
  • Page 136: Dc Power Unit Troubleshooting

    The flow control valve controls the decent speed of the body to prevent overrunning the pump. If the pump will not operate, check the level of charge in the battery and also for blown fuses. If these check out, contact your dealer for assistance. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 137: Tires

    High speed towing in hot conditions degrades trailer tires significantly. As heat builds up during driving, the tire’s internal structure starts to breakdown, compromising the strength of the tire. It is recommended to drive at moderate speeds. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 138: Wheel Rims

    If the trailer has been struck, or impacted, on or near the wheels, or if the trailer has struck a curb, inspect the rims for damage (i.e. being out of round); and replace any damaged wheel. Inspect the wheels for damage every year, even if no obvious impact has occurred. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 139: Wheel Bearings

    DO NOT use the body safety prop to support a loaded dump body. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 140 Pump grease into the each fitting (1) on the dump body pivot hinges and rear door hinges (2) every month. See figures 8-1 and 8-2. Figure 8-1 – Lubricate Dump Body Pivot Hinges Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 141 (3) in the upright position. Lower the dump body so the body safety prop engages the socket on the dump body. See figure 8-3. Pump grease into the fittings (4) on each end of the cylinder(s). Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 142: Lug Nuts (Bolts)

    ARNING Lug nuts are prone to loosen after being first assembled. Death or serious injury can result. Check lug nuts for tightness on a new trailer, and after re-mounting a wheel at 10, 25 and 50 miles. Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 143 14 inch 20-25 lb ft 50-60 lb ft 90-120 lb ft 15 inch 20-25 lb ft 50-60 lb ft 90-120 lb ft 16 inch 20-25 lb ft 50-60 lb ft 90-120 lb ft Figure 8-5 – Wheel Torque Requirements Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 144 Electrical Drawings Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 145: Electrical Drawings

    LECTRICAL RAWINGS Bri-Mar Trailers...
  • Page 146 Bri-Mar Trailers...

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