Air Breaks: Operation With Air Break Failure (Caging Breaks)

In the event of a complete failure of the brake system, the following procedure makes it possible to move the trailer off the travel portion of the highway

This is an emergency procedure that is to be used only to move the trailer off the travel portion of the highway when there is a complete failure of the brake system.

Normal operation with brakes caged could result in serious injury to personnel.

a. Remove internal hex pipe plug (1) from the air chamber (2).

b. Remove nut (3) and washer (4). Remove the release tool from the holder (7) on the air chamber.

c. Insert release tool (5) into the hole (6) and turn one-quarter turn to seat release tool.

d. Install washer (4) and nut (3) on release tool (5) and tighten until 2-1/2 to 2-3/4 inches of release tool is exposed.

e. Repeat steps a through d for the remaining air chambers.

f. With release tools in position, the trailer brake system is not operative. Use extreme caution and move the trailer to the side of the road.

g. After reaching the side of the road, remove nut (3) and washer (4) from each release tool (5).

h. Remove release tools (5) from holes (6) in air chambers and tighten.

i. Insert each pipe plug (1) in holes (6) of air chambers and tighten.

j. Insert each release tool (5) in its tool holder (7) and secure with washer (4) and nuts (3).