Troubleshooting The Trailer - Axis A20 Owner's Manual

troubleshooting
the trailer
Whenever possible, it is advisable to have issues with the trailer addressed by a trained
service technician at an authorized Malibu (Axis) Trailer dealer. However, there can be instances
when this is not feasible, particularly in cases of emergency or distance from the dealer. The
following troubleshooting advice is not guaranteed to fix the issue, and Malibu (Axis) Trailers
does not warrant any repair effected by other than a trained service technician at an authorized
Axis dealership. If you must troubleshoot the trailer and/or its components while the trailer is
under warranty, we recommend having a follow-up consultation with the dealer.
Here are some of the more common issues that may arise:
ISSUE:
The coupler latch handle does not open or close, or does not open/close smoothly and
easily.
CONSIDER:
• Verify that the hitch ball is the specified, correct size.
• The hitch ball may not be fully seated within the socket.
• The trailer and tow vehicle may not be level.
• Ensure there is no debris or foreign objects interfering with the match.
• Ensure there is sufficient lubrication in the moving parts.
• Verify that there is little to no corrosion on any of the metal parts.
ISSUE:
The tongue actuator is making unusual noises, including, but not limited to, clunking or
squawking.
CONSIDER:
• The shock absorber inside the tongue may be worn and require replacement by an authorized
Malibu (Axis) Trailer dealer.
• The brakes may require bleeding as there is air in the system that is allowing the actuator to
malfunction.
• The hitch ball may be too small, too worn or require some lubrication.
ISSUE:
Braking is uneven, including instances of the brake releasing when the driver's foot is on
the brake pedal in the tow vehicle.
CONSIDER:
• There may be an issue in the tongue actuator such as a worn shock absorber.
• The hitch ball may not be seated properly in the socket.
• There is too little or too much weight percentage on the tongue.
• The tow vehicle's shock absorbers are too worn.
• The brakes need adjustment.
• The brake lines require a re-bleeding.
• Verify that the brake linings, rotors, calipers and other components are correctly aligned and
operational.
• Verify that the master cylinder is not corroded.
• Verify that the brake lines are not rusted or corroded.
• Check to determine if the breakaway cable has pulled free.
Axis
Owners
Manual
2019
Page 190