Specifications
The trailer’s brakes are designed to energize automatically when the tow vehicle’s
brakes are applied. These are known as “surge brakes.” (Note: Some jurisdictions do not
allow surge brakes. Always check within the locality in which you will be towing.) When
the vehicle slows down or stops, the forward momentum (surge) of the trailer against the
hitch ball develops hydraulic pressure in a master cylinder inside the trailer brake actuator.
Hydraulic lines are used to transfer pressure to the brakes and engage them.
In most states, trailers with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 1,500 pounds
or more are required by law to have brakes on all wheels. (Auto manufacturers generally
recommend brakes even with lighter trailers.)
Trailer brakes must be maintained in
good working condition at all times. In-
spect the brake system on a regular basis
and verify proper uid level in the actua-
tor. e loss of adequate braking could result in serious injury or death and/
or property damage.
The trailer is equipped with a hydraulic brake actuator. Trailer brakes will automati-
cally apply whenever the tow vehicle’s brakes are applied. Stopping (deceleration) force is
developed in direct proportion to the stopping force generated by the tow vehicle.
e breakaway system actuators will apply
the trailer brakes if the trailer becomes
completely detached from the tow vehicle
while under power. Failure to properly
connect the breakaway system prior to towing may result in serious injury or
death and/or property damage.
The breakaway cable is a line of defense at separation. Before the breakaway cable is
pulled, the coupler must become detached from the hitch ball and then the safety chains
fail. At this time the breakaway cable is pulled, which applies a braking force to the trailer.
Note that the breakaway system is not intended to lock up the trailer brakes after separat-
ing from the tow vehicle but rather to apply just enough braking force to keep the trailer from
free-wheeling. The breakaway system must be reset manually after it has been activated.
DO NOT USE THE BREAKAWAY SYSTEM AS A PARKING BRAKE.
A surface rust will build up on the rotor brake surface if the trailer isn’t used for a week
or more. The brake pads will wipe off the rust in the first few miles of travel. If the trailer
has been idle for several months, or it has been frequently submerged in salt water and the
MasterCra Trailer Manual • Page 15