Tie Down 80LP User Manual

Installation Instructions and Service Manual

Model 80LP (Bullet)
Actuator* for
Trailer Brakes

8000 lbs Capacity
Part #48970- Disc Brake Ready

*US Patent No. 6,375,211

MODEL 80LP ACTUATOR INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
IMPORTANT: READ AND UNDERSTAND THE ENTIRE INSTRUCTION PROCEDURE BEFORE USING YOUR BRAKES
AND ACTUATOR.

The Model 8 0LP works by the “surge” or “push” of the trailer toward the tow vehicle when braking. This automatically synchronizes the
trailer brakes with the tow vehicle axle brakes. When the trailer pushes against the tow vehicle, the actuator telescopes together and applies
force to the master cylinder, supplying hydraulic pressure to the brakes. The built in dampening shock absorber retards the telescoping
shock against the hitch ball.

Brake laws sometimes are minimum standards and you may wish to add additional brakes to your trailer. Read your tow vehicles
owner’s manual on towing capacity and other towing recommendations before installing brakes or this actuator.

The Model 80LP Actuator is completely assembled and ready to install.

1. Hydraulic brake lines should be installed on the trailer as described in the installation manual supplied with the brakes. Note: Some
disc brakes require the use of flexible brake lines at the connection POINT on the brake caliper. Follow brake manufacturer instructions.

2. Use only DOT-3 heavy-duty hydraulic fluid in the Model 80LP actuator. Use a pressure type brake bleeder to bleed brakes. (This type
of brake bleeder is available at your local automotive jobber.) Follow manufacturer’s directions. Or, manually bleed the brakes using a
heavy-duty flat blade screwdriver inserted in the hole provided on top of the actuator near the front. Insert the screwdriver and use a
pumping action to activate the master cylinder in order to bleed the brakes. See page 8 for more details.

NOTE: Your trailer may come with a single point bleed system, please read the owners manual before bleeding brakes
To bleed master cylinder and brakes, the bleeder hose must be attached to the highest (top) valve on the caliper, on first wheel
cylinder to be bled; if tandem axle trailer, bleed closest axle first, and the closest brake on that axle first. Use a loose end of hose
from the bleeder valve submerged in a clear plastic container of brake fluid to observe bubbling (hose must be submerged into clean
brake fluid to keep air from traveling back into the brake cylinder). Loosen the bleeder screw located in the wheel cylinder one turn, the
system is now open to the atmosphere. The bleeding operation for that brake is complete when bubbling stops. Be sure to tighten
bleeder screw securely. Each wheel cylinder must be bleed until all air is out of the lines. Replenish the brake fluid during the
bleeding process so the level does not fall below half full level in the master cylinder reservoir. When bleeding and testing is
completed, make sure master cylinder is filled to 3/8” below the top of the reservoir and filler cap is securely in place.

3. Check with your state motor vehicle department for laws concerning minimum trailer brake requirements. Some states may require
brakes on all axles.

4. When testing is completed, make sure master cylinder is filled to 3/8” below the top of the reservoir and filler cap is securely in place.
Road test again to make sure brakes work properly.

5. Road test trailer a short distance to activate the actuator several times.

Instruction #08172

TIE DOWN ENGINEERING • 255 Villanova Drive SW • Atlanta, GA 30336

www.tiedown.com [phone] Fax [phone]

031714,B1032

RATED CAPACITY: Maximum Actuator Capacity: 8000 lbs. Gross Load, 800 lbs. Maximum Tongue Load

The actual in-service rating is limited to that of the ball and hitch being used or the trailer manufacturer’s G.V.W.R. shown on the
certification label, whichever is lower (Note: GVWR is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating which includes the trailer and the load
weight as a Total Gross Weight).

HITCHING TRAILER

1. The vehicle, towing hitch and ball must have a rating equal to or greater than trailer GVWR.

2. Model 80LP will accept 2” trailer hitch balls rated for 8,000# or more only. Trailer balls larger than 2.00” or out of round will not fit the
coupler or may result in coupler failure. Balls smaller than 1.970” can cause shock loading and sudden disconnection. Make certain ball
latch is in correct position to retain the hitch ball. Push latch back until safety latch engages plate below latch. Insert safety pin into
forward hole as a safety lock for the hitch ball coupler prior to towing. Do not tow trailer if coupler is damaged.

3. Connect safety cables or chains using crossed pattern under tongue, or follow trailer manufacturer’s directions. NOTE: The E-stop cable
must have slack to make turns right and left without activating the brakes.

4. Connect actuator breakaway cable S-hook to the tow vehicle only. Do not connect S-hook to the safety cables or chains.

5. The breakaway system is designed to only operate after the trailer detaches from the tow vehicle and the safety chains have failed. The
breakaway is not a parking brake. Do not use as such.

6. If the E-stop is accidentally applied while un-hitching, see the last page (8) for E-stop release instructions.

7. Any control devices that restrict operation of the actuator cannot be used. This includes certain sway control devices. The actuator must
be free to telescope in response to braking action of the tow vehicle.

8. Equalizing or weight distributing hitches may be used, allow six to eight inches free chain length.
DANGER: Tongue weight beyond rating limits will interfere with performance of actuator, braking system and the tow vehicle.

9. The actuator is designed for use with Free-Backing trailer brakes. To block braking action, (in order to back up) with other types of
brakes, use an electric solenoid. For trailer movement when brakes are not required, place the safety pin in the upper hole on the side
of the actuator to block movement of the actuator. DANGER: Failure to remove pin will also prevent forward braking. Pin must be in

the lower, forward hole as a safety lock for the hitch ball coupler latch when towing at all times.

DIRECTIONS - VEHICLE WIRING - with Free Backing Brake Solenoid

1. Disconnect trailer hitch and any wiring connectors from the vehicle.

2. Connect a 14 gauge wire to the backup (reverse) light wire of the vehicle. This wire should be of sufficient length to attach to the
existing vehicle/trailer wire receptacle. The end of this wire will require a female end that will match the solenoid male connector wire.

3. For ease of use, tape or band the end of the reverse light wire to the vehicle’s trailer electrical connector.

MAINTENANCE

1. Always check the brake fluid reservoir before using trailer. Make sure it is at least half full. If not, re-fill to 3/8 inch below the top of
the reservoir with DOT 3 brake fluid. Check for leaks and repair as required. Never reuse brake fluid.

2. To extend coupler and ball life, coat both with a thin coating of grease. This will also eliminate squeaking. Wipe clean and renew
film each time trailer is used.

3. Examine the actuator for bent parts or wear each time the trailer is used. Replace parts as necessary.

4. There are no user adjustments on the actuator.

5. Actuator travel (shown by coupler roller path) over one inch indicates a need to adjust the brakes or add fluid to the reservoir or a
need to bleed the brakes and check connections for leaks. Adjust per instructions found in brake installation manual. In general,
back-off adjusters on drum brakes from locked position, as required. Adjust Free-Backing brakes by rotating in forward direction
only. Failure to adjust may result in loss of braking. Disc brakes do not require adjustment, check for pad wear.

6. While towing, if the actuator appears to be knocking against the hitch ball while starting or stopping, check brake fluid reservoir
and fill if below 3/8” full from the top. Low level could indicate a leak in the brake system.

WARNING

Actuator and brakes should always be flushed with fresh water after using trailer in corrosive conditions. This includes salt
water, fertilizers and other corrosive materials. Before storing trailer remove brakes and clean thoroughly. It is also wise to
repack the bearings at the same time. Failure to properly and adequately maintain the actuator could cause serious damage,
injury or death.

WARNING

The breakaway system is not designed to operate if the trailer does not separate completely from the tow vehicle, or if the
tongue goes under the rear of the tow vehicle.

WARNING

In the event that the breakaway system is used, check all system components (cable, S-hooks, etc.) for proper working order.
Replace any damaged parts with genuine Tie Down parts only.

WARNING

When re-setting the break a way system keep hands and fingers clear as you re-set the mechanism, hydraulic pressure held in
the system may cause the assembly to snap back suddenly.

WARNING

AVOID sharp turns, which can cause the actuator to bind or jackknife against the tow vehicle or cause a bend in the tongue.
Either can damage the actuator causing brake failure. AVOID towing trailer across large bumps or dips that may over stress the
connection between the trailer and tow vehicle, as this could result in damage to the actuator.

WARNING

DO NOT REUSE BRAKE FLUID. Always use fresh DOT 3 fluid from a fresh container. Failure to maintain proper levels of fluid in the
reservoir will cause brake failure.

WARNING

Failure to install the hitch pin before towing can result in accidental opening of the coupler hitch latch which can lead to the
trailer coming off of the hitch ball causing serious damage, injury or death. If pin will not fit into the front lower hole, the
coupler is not attached properly. Re-set coupler on hitch ball.

WARNING

A minimum of 5% tongue weight and a maximum 10% tongue weight of the trailer GVWR must be located on the hitch ball. The
Trailer tongue should be parallel to the ground. Too much weight can cause premature brake actuation and loss of control of the
towing vehicle. To little tongue weight can cause the trailer to fishtail, resulting in loss of control of the tow vehicle and trailer
(total trailer weight GVWR includes weight of the trailer plus load).

WARNING

A loose fit between the coupler and hitch ball can cause the actuator and hitch ball to separate, causing serious damage, injury
or death. Check coupler every time prior to towing and at each stop on long trips. Always make certain that coupler latch
safety pin is securely installed into coupler latch.

WARNING

Brake laws sometimes are minimum standards and you may wish to add additional brakes to your trailer. Read your tow
vehicles owner’s manual on towing capacity and other towing recommendations before installing brakes or this actuator.

WARNING

NEVER ALLOW THE COUPLER LATCH SAFETY PIN TO REMAIN IN THE REVERSE LOCKOUT POSITION HOLE.
AFTER REVERSE MANEUVERING, ALWAYS INSERT COUPLER LATCH SAFETY PIN BACK INTO COUPLER LATCH.
FAILURE TO REMOVE SAFETY PIN FROM REVERSE LOCK OUT POSITION HOLE WILL PREVENT FORWARD
MOVEMENT BREAKING WHICH CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS PROPERTY DAMAGE, INJURY OR DEATH.

Model LP80
Disc Brake Actuator

8,000 lbs. Capacity
Part #48867 Disc Brake

1A & 3

8

1A & 2

8

10

1A & 4

1A

7

10

9

12

1A

8

9

5

1A

1C

9

1A

6

9

6

11

1B

072312,B1032

Item # Part # Description

1A 17044K Disc Brake - Master Cylinder Repair Kit, Includes: all nuts, cuffs, pins and clips
1B 11286 Disc Brake Solenoid - used with disc brake actuators
1C 10880K Set Screw with lock nut
2 48986A Master Cylinder Cap with internal bladder
3 48984 Cover - E-Stop
4 48988 Slide Cuff
5 50313 E-Stop Cable
6 11135 Pin Bullet .56 x 4.3” with zerc fitting
7 48989-3 Pin Bullet .62” x 4.3” without zerc fitting
8 10544 Jam Nut for 11135 & 48989-3
9 48753B Bushing Short
10 48989-4 Bushing Long
11 50301 Safety Cable with stainless steel pin
12 48971 Latch Kit

031314,C1251

Caution!

Jam Nut

Bushing

NOTE: The jam nut has a lower prole,
and is thinner than a standard nut.

Caution! Do not use pneumatics with
medium or high torque ratings! Use

only low torque pneumatics, (1/4" drive
buttery or ratchet wrench recommend­ed) Torque jam nylock nut to 15-20
ft/lbs MAXIMUM.

072312,B1032

TIE DOWN ENGINEERING LIMITED WARRANTY

Limited Warranty TIE DOWN ENGINEERING Inc (“TIE DOWN”) warrants its products to be free from defects in material and workmanship for

one year from date of delivery to the original purchaser when properly installed, used and maintained by the purchaser.

This warranty does not apply to damage or loss caused by any or all of the following circumstances or conditions:

• Damage caused during installation.

• Parts, accessories, materials or components used with or replacing any TIE DOWN braking system not obtained from or approved in
writing by TIE DOWN.

• Misapplication, misuse and failure to follow the directions or observe cautions and warnings on installation,
operation, application, inspection or maintenance specified in any TIE DOWN quotation, acknowledgement, sales literature,
specification sheet or installation instruction and service manual (“applicable literature”).

• Use of product in any other application other than those described in TIE DOWN’s product information materials.

If any TIE DOWN products are found upon TIE DOWN’s examination to have been defective when supplied, TIE DOWN will either: credit the
purchaser’s account for the purchase price of the TIE DOWN product; replace the TIE DOWN product; or repair the product. TIE DOWN has
sole discretion in choosing which option to provide. For this LIMITED WARRANTY to apply, TIE DOWN must receive notice of the alleged
defect within 30 days of either the discovery of the alleged defect or the expiration of the warranty period, whichever is earlier. Any claim
not made within this period shall conclusively be deemed waived.

If requested by TIE DOWN, purchaser shall return the alleged defective product to TIE DOWN for examination at purchasers expense. TIE
DOWN will not pay for expenses incurred in returning a product to TIE DOWN without TIE DOWN’s prior written authority. TIE DOWN shall
not be liable for any other expenses purchaser incurs to remedy any defect. Purchasers waive subrogation on all claims under any insurance.

Limitation of Liability: It is expressly agreed that the liability of TIE DOWN is limited and TIE DOWN does not function as an insurer.
THE REMEDIES SET FORTH IN THIS WARRANTY SHALL CONSTITUTE THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES AVAILABLE TO THE PURCHASER OR USER
AND ARE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER REMEDIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. THE LIABILITY OF TIE DOWN, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, IN TORT, UNDER
ANY WARRANTY OR OTHERWISE, SHALL NOT EXCEED THE PURCHASE PRICE OF THE PARTICULAR PRODUCT MANUFACTURED, SOLD OR
SUPPLIED BY TIE DOWN.

To Obtain Technical Assistance: To enable TIE DOWN to respond to a request for assistance or evaluation of customer or user
operating difficulty, please provide at a minimum the following information by calling 1-800-241-1806:

• Model number, serial number and all other data on the specific component which appears to be involved in the difficulty.

• The date and from whom you purchased your TIE DOWN product.

• State your difficulty, being sure to mention at least the following: Application, Nature of load involved, and Weight of the load.

Field Service If field service at the request of the purchaser is rendered and the difficulty is found not to be with TIE DOWN’s
product, the purchaser shall pay the time and expense (at the prevailing rate at the time of service) of seller’s field representative(s).
Charges for service, labor and other expenses that have been incurred by the purchaser, its customer or agent without prior written
authorization of TIE DOWN will not be accepted.

TIE DOWN EXTENDS NO WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, ON PRODUCTS NOT MANUFACTURED BY TIE DOWN OR TO
TIE DOWN’S DESIGN SPECIFICATION, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO SUCH ITEMS AS NON-TIE DOWN TIRES, BRAKES, ACTUATORS, BEARINGS,
HOSE AND TUBING. PURCHASER’S RECOURSE SHALL BE LIMITED TO ANY WARRANTY OF THE RESPECTIVE MANUFACTURERS.

THIS WARRANTY EXCLUDES ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR ANY PURPOSE.

THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER NOR EXTEND TO INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGE. Some states do not allow the
exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty
gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

TIE DOWN ENGINEERING • 255 Villanova Drive SW • Atlanta, GA 30336

www.tiedown.com [phone] Fax [phone]

No representative has authority to make any representation, promise or agreement except as stated in this Limited Warranty. TIE DOWN

4 color

TIE DOWN ENGINEERING • 255 Villanova Drive SW • Atlanta, GA 30336

www.tiedown.com [phone] Fax [phone]

reserves the right to make design and other changes upon its products without any obligation to install the same on any previously sold or
delivered products.

DUE TO THE WIDE VARIATION IN USES TO WHICH TIE DOWN PRODUCTS (WHEELS, HUBS, BRAKES, ETC.) ARE SUBJECTED BY USERS, WE ARE
UNABLE TO SPECIFY CARRYING CAPACITIES OR SPEEDS FOR A PARTICULAR APPLICATION. THEREFORE, THE MANUFACTURER MUST TEST HIS
EQUIPMENT UNDER THE MOST SEVERE CONDITIONS TO DETERMINE THAT TIE DOWN
PRODUCTS ARE SUITABLE.

THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES WHICH EXTEND BEYOND THOSE DESCRIBED ABOVE. EFFECTIVE JANUARY 2001 THIS WARRANTY
SUPERSEDES ALL PRIOR WARRANTIES, WRITTEN OR IMPLIED.

TIE DOWN ENGINEERING • 255 Villanova Drive SW • Atlanta, GA 30336

www.tiedown.com [phone] Fax [phone]

TDE MODEL

LP8000

SAE CLASS IV

MAX GVW

8000 LBS

TDE48984

EMERGENCY

STOP

ENGAGED

NORMAL

POSITION

FRONT

TDE MODEL

LP8000

SAE CLASS IV

MAX GVW

Instructions for Bleeding
Tie Down Engineering’s
Model 80LP
“Bullet” Actuator

Fill the master cylinder with DOT 3 brake Fluid.

To pump bleed the master cylinder, remove the access cover. Insert a flat tip
screwdriver between the brake release lever (#1-a) and the emergency stop
release bracket. (#1-b) Hold down the emergency stop release bracket (#2).
Pump the brake fluid by pushing/pulling the screwdriver forward and back to
bleed the brakes manually (#3).

To pressurize the master cylinder brake lines & brakes; follow brake bleeding
instructions for brakes to complete the bleeding process.

Emergency Brake Is Engaged:

Illustrations 4 & 5 show the top of the actuator/access cover.
#4 Shown as “NORMAL POSITION”. Be sure that there are no signs of the red
“EMERGENCY STOP” bracket in view.

a

b

1

2

#5 If the “EMERGENCY STOP” release bracket (Red) is visible, the emergency
brake has been engaged. To release the Emergency Stop, see illustration #6.

WARNING:
DO NOT TOW THE VEHICLE IF YOU SEE “RED” !

TDE48984

4

EMERGENCY

STOP

ENGAGED

NORMAL

POSITION

FRONT

- Normal Use -

Emergency Stop Disengaged

TIE DOWN ENGINEERING • 255 Villanova Drive SW • Atlanta, GA 30336

www.tiedown.com [phone] Fax [phone]

Emergency

Stop Bracket

(in Red)

5

Emergency Stop Engaged

TDE48984

EMERGENCY

STOP

ENGAGED

NORMAL

POSITION

FRONT

• DO NOT TOW •

3

a

6

To Release the Emergency Brake:

Press down the emergency stop release

bracket with a screwdriver (#6a) until

the E-stop bracket snaps back into the

“NORMAL POSITION” (#4).

072312,B1032