Roadmaster 9700 Owner's Manual
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Part number 9700
Entire contents of manual must be read by owner
Time Tested • Time Proven
ROADMASTER, Inc. • 6110 NE 127th Ave. • Vancouver, WA 98682
800-669-9690 • roadmasterinc.com
853602-06 05/18 © 2006-2018 ROADMASTER, Inc. All rights reserved.
Extend your warranty
for an additional year —
for FREE!
See inside front cover
for details.
his manual has been prepared to acquaint you with the installation and operation of your 9700, and to
provide you with important safety information.
Read your owner’s manual cover to cover. Understand how to install and operate your 9700, and carefully fol-
low the instructions and safety precautions.
Your 9700 has a one-year limited warranty. To qualify for your warranty, fill out and return the enclosed product
registration card within 30 days of purchase. As a bonus, we’ll extend your warranty to a total of two years
at no additional cost, if we receive the product registration card within 30 days of purchase.
We thank you for your patronage and greatly appreciate your discerning taste.
WELCOME TO THE ROADMASTER FAMILY!
IMPORTANT NOTICE!
Safety Definitions
This manual contains information that is very important to know and understand. This information is provided for
safety and to prevent equipment problems. To help recognize this information, observe the following symbols:
WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situ-
ation which, if not avoided, could result in property
damage, serious personal injury, or even death.
CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situ-
ation which, if not avoided, may result in property
damage, or minor or moderate personal injury.
CAUTION
CAUTION used without the safety alert symbol
indicates a potentially hazardous situation which,
if not avoided, may result in property damage.
NOTE
Refers to important information and is placed in italic
type. It is recommended that you take special notice
of these items.
9700 specifications
Height ......................................................12.25 inches
Width .........................................................13.5 inches
Length ...........................................................16 inches
Weight ......................................................... 20 pounds
Voltage .......................................................12 volts DC
Operating temperature range
............................... -2° to +150° F (-19° to +66° C)
Length of standard power cord ....................42 inches
Maximum amperage draw ...........................10.8 amps
Idle amperage draw ............................................64mA
Approximate maximum air pressure .................. 60 psi
Maximum force extended on brake pedal .......106 lbs.
Minimum space the 9700 can fit ..................16 inches
The 9700 serial number…
…is on a label on the underside of the unit. You
will need this number when you fill out your product
registration card.
Write down the serial number in the space below
and retain for future reference…
Serial number:
Save this manual
Save this manual for future reference. It contains
important sections relative to safety, use, maintenance,
parts replacement and other information. Therefore,
make sure this manual is always with you when you're
towing.
You may download or print a copy of the most current
manual at www.roadmasterinc.com (under 'Support').
Read all instructions before install-
ing or operating the 9700. Failure to
understand how to install or operate
the 9700 could result in property dam-
age, personal injury or even death.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Specifications ....................................inside front cover
Safety definitions ..............................inside front cover
Components ............................................................... 2
Wiring diagrams ......................................................... 3
Initial Installation
Before you begin the initial installation
(installer’s checklist) ........................................... 4-5
Initial installation ................................................... 6-11
Install the break away system ............................... 6
Modifications to the
towed vehicle’s lighting system ...................... 6-7
Install the motorhome monitor
wiring harness in the towed vehicle ............... 7-8
Attach the brake signal wire ............................... 8-9
Attach the firewall grommet;
attach the wiring connectors ............................ 9
Install the motorhome monitor LED .................. 9-10
Test the braking system ................................. 10-11
Day-to-Day Operation
Attach the pedal clamp ....................................... 12-13
Adjust the feet and the seat pad ............................. 14
Plug in the power cord ............................................ 15
Test and adjust positioning;
deplete the vacuum in the power brakes ............ 15
Set the brake pressure ............................................ 16
Connect the wiring harness;
test the break away system ............................ 16-17
Connect the motorhome monitor patch cord ........... 17
Test the braking system ...................................... 17-18
Protection Modes
Extended braking protection .................................... 18
Responding to an audio alert .................................. 18
Quick Reference Checklist
Connecting the 9700 ............................................... 19
Disconnecting the 9700 ........................................... 20
Troubleshooting .................................................. 21-22
Ford ‘neutral tow’ vehicles .................................. 23-24
Optional equipment .................................................. 25
Limited warranty ...................................................... 26
Index ........................................................................ 27
CAUTION
Not for use on older vehicles without power
brakes. The 9700 is designed to work with vehicles
that have a power brake system (even though the
power brakes are not activated while towing). Using
the 9700 on vehicles that do not have power brakes
will result in over-braking and severe non-warranty
brake damage.
CAUTION
Do not install the 9700 in a vehicle with an ‘ac-
tive’ braking system.
‘Active’ (or, ‘continuous power assist’) braking
systems are a safety feature on some new ve-
hicles. This feature allows the brakes to always
have power, even with the ignition off. The only
supplemental braking system that ROADMASTER
manufactures for these vehicles is BrakeMaster,
with the addition of a Brake Pressure Reducer (part
number 900002).
If any ROADMASTER supplemental braking sys-
tem other than a BrakeMaster with a Brake Pres-
sure Reducer is installed, the vehicle will brake
with excessive force, which will damage the tires.
Other non-warranty damage may also occur.
It is the owner’s responsibility (or if profession-
ally installed, the installer’s responsibility) to de-
termine if the vehicle being equipped with supple-
mental brakes has an active braking system — refer
to the owner’s manual, the vehicle manufacturer or
the dealership.
ROADMASTER expressly disallows any and all
claims relating to tire damage, brake damage, or
any other damage to vehicles with ‘active’ braking
systems caused by: 1) installation of any ROAD-
MASTER supplemental braking system other than
BrakeMaster; or 2) failure to install a Brake Pres-
sure Reducer with the BrakeMaster.
If a charge line kit is installed in the towed vehi-
cle, apply a silicone sealant to the socket terminals
where the wires are connected. Otherwise, stray
voltage may energize the turn signal wiring. This
will cause inadvertent activation of the supplemen-
tal braking system. Severe brake system damage,
loss of vehicular control and other consequential
damage may occur.
1
1 9329 ....................brake pedal clamp
2 n/a .......................air cylinder shaft
3 n/a .......................brake pressure button
4 n/a .......................test button
5 n/a .......................air relief button
6 650996.................adjustable seat pad
(handle assembly)
7 450952.................adjustment knob
8 450105.................adjustable feet
9 450103.................12-volt power cord
7
8
4
12
2
5
Items not shown to scale.
Optional equipment is listed in the
“Optional Equipment” section.
15
9
10
6
part number
description
10 650906.................wiring harness
11 650900.................break away wiring harness
12 8602 ....................break away cable
13 650898.................break away switch
14 650906-01 ...........brake signal wire
15 300065-00 ...........motorhome monitor LED
16 9325 ....................audio signal circuit board
17 450008.................motorhome monitor patch
cord (not pictured)
1
14
16
11
3
13
2
1. ALWAYS CHECK THE ROADMASTER WEBSITE
— www.roadmasterinc.com — for vehicle-specific infor-
mation, which is available under ‘Vehicle-Specific Info.’
2. If the battery must be disconnected for towing, a 12-
volt outlet kit (part number 9332) and a brake light switch
must be installed. Brake light switch kits for most popular
towed vehicles are available through ROADMASTER;
to see if one is available for any specific vehicle, visit
www.roadmasterinc.com and select ‘Vehicle-Specific
Info,' then ‘Supplemental Braking Systems.' Enter the
vehicle make, model and year, then scroll down the
page.
Note: if a brake light switch kit is listed on the web
site for any particular vehicle, it is required.
Note: a battery disconnect (part number 766) is
available for vehicles which must be towed with the
battery disconnected.
If you choose to install the battery disconnect, a
brake light switch is still required; a Brake-Lite Relay
(see “Modifications to the towed vehicle’s lighting
system”) is not.
3. If fuse(s) must be removed from the vehicle be-
fore it can be towed — verify that removing the fuse(s)
will not disrupt power to the 9700 or otherwise affect
the installation or operation.
4. Check the towed vehicle’s 12-volt outlet for cor-
rect power — the 9700 is powered through the 12-volt
outlet, with the ignition key turned to the “tow” position.
However, some vehicles only have power at the 12-volt
outlet when the engine is running. Before you begin
the initial installation, verify that you have power at
the towed vehicle’s 12-volt outlet with the ignition key
turned to the “tow” position.
If there is no power, you can install the optional 12-
volt outlet kit (part number 9332). When installed, this
kit will provide power to the 12-volt outlet even when
the engine is off.
5. Check the 12-volt outlet socket to make certain
that: a) the socket has been wired correctly; and b) the
socket is not corroded.
a. Make certain that the socket has been wired cor-
rectly — the contact point at the bottom of the socket
should be positive, and the outer shell around the top
of the socket should be negative.
CAUTION
If the socket’s positive and negative connections
have been reversed, the fuse in the 9700 power
cord will blow when the cord is plugged into the
12-volt outlet.
b. Make certain that the socket is not corroded
or otherwise damaged — a corroded socket may not
provide constant power to the 9700, which may cause
intermittent operation.
If the socket is corroded or damaged, you can install
the optional 12-volt outlet kit (part number 9332).
Before you begin the initial installation…
When installed, this kit will provide constant power to
the 9700.
CAUTION
If the towed vehicle has a single 12-volt outlet
which has been used to heat a cigarette lighter
plug, install the optional 12-volt outlet kit for the
9700 power supply.
Using a cigarette lighter plug in a 12-volt socket
will corrode the contact points. The socket will not
supply sufficient voltage to be used as the 9700
power source — the 9700 may not operate, or may
only operate intermittently.
6. The circuit at the towed vehicle’s 12-volt outlet
must be rated at NO LESS THAN 15 AMPS to power
the 9700. Check the fuse at the outlet — if the fuse is
rated at 15 amps or higher, the circuit is adequate to
power the 9700. If the fuse is rated at less than 15
amps, install the optional 12-volt outlet kit (part number
9332). When installed, this kit will provide power to the
9700.
CAUTION
If the circuit at the 12-volt outlet is rated at less
than 15 amperes, install the optional 12-volt outlet
kit. Depending on the available current during tow-
ing, the 9700 may not function, or may function
incorrectly, without at least 15 amps.
If the circuit is rated at less than 15 amps, do
not simply replace the outlet’s fuse with a higher-
amperage fuse. This will cause the wiring to over-
heat, which can cause wiring damage, an electrical
fire, or other consequential, non-warranty damage.
7. Check the towed vehicle’s brake lights — The
9700 must function with the ignition key turned to the
“tow” position. However, some vehicles’ brake lights
only operate with the key turned to the “on” position.
Check to see if this is the case: turn the ignition key to
the “tow” position, apply the brakes, and check to see
if the brake lights illuminate. If the brake lights do not
illuminate, a two-prong brake light switch and 10-amp
fuse must be installed.
Note: check the owner’s manual to see if the vehicle
is equipped with an “automatic shut down” feature. If
this is the case, ensure that the vehicle is not in auto-
matic shut down mode before performing this test.
Brake light switch kits for most popular towed ve-
hicles are available through ROADMASTER; to see
if one is available for any specific vehicle, visit www.
roadmasterinc.com and select ‘Vehicle-Specific Info,’
then ‘Supplemental Braking Systems.’ Enter the vehicle
make, model and year, then scroll down the page.
continued on next page
4
Before you begin the initial installation…
continued from preceding page
Note: if you must install a Brake-Lite Relay — see
step 9, below — a brake light switch is not required.
8. If the towed vehicle has a magnetic tow light
system — modifications will be necessary, in order to
permanently attach the brake signal wire. Refer to Step
D under “Initial Installation” — “Attach the brake signal
wire,” step 2c.
9. An optional Brake-Lite Relay may be required.
See page seven for instructions on how to determine
if the relay must be installed.
Note: a brake light switch (see steps 2 and 7 above)
and a Brake-Lite Relay are mutually exclusive — if you
use one, the other is not necessary.
10. If the towed vehicle will be (or has been) wired
for towing — diodes must be attached to the wires.
The electrical circuit that turns the towed vehicle's
brake lights on and off also turns the 9700 on and off.
If diodes are not attached, electrical feedback through
the brake light wire will prevent the 9700 from releas-
ing braking pressure. The 9700 will be activated with
the brake lights, but will not release braking pressure
until the extended braking protection mode overrides
the brake signal, after approximately 15 seconds.
CAUTION
If the vehicle will be wired for towing, diodes
must be attached in order for the 9700 to release
the towed vehicle's brakes in tandem with the
motorhome. If diodes are not attached, the 9700
will apply braking pressure for approximately 15
seconds each time the motorhome brakes are ap-
plied, regardless of when the motorhome brakes
are released.
Damage to the towed vehicle's braking system,
as well as other consequential damage, may occur.
Additional diodes are not required if…
• … a Brake-Lite Relay (part number 88400) must be
installed in the towed vehicle; or
• … a non-intrusive wiring method is selected — either
a bulb and socket wiring kit (part numbers 152-LEDRP
or 155) or magnetic tow lights (part number 2120).
Wiring kits with diodes are available from ROAD-
MASTER — the Universal wiring kit, part num-
ber 154 or the Economy wiring kit, part number
152RP. Additional diodes may also be purchased
separately. Wiring diagrams are under ‘Support’ at
www.roadmasterinc.com.
5
n addition to wiring and connection instructions, this section contains information about the components of
your supplementary braking system and how they function. For that reason, read this section, even if you will
not be installing these components yourself.
Step A
Install the break away system
“Break away” systems are secondary safety devices,
required by law in many states, which will brake the
towed vehicle if it separates (“breaks away”) from the
motorhome.
1. Mount the break away switch (Figure 1) at the front
of the vehicle, on the driver’s side. Choose an area you
can easily reach, with a surface of sufficient strength to
hold the switch firmly in place, so that the break away
pin (Figure 1) will pull freely from the switch. Mount the
switch in a horizontal position, with the break away pin
facing toward the motorhome.
Ensure that the break away pin can be pulled freely
away from the towed vehicle, without any obstructions.
Do not attach the break away switch to the tow
bar. In the unlikely event that the tow bar should
separate, the break away switch will separate with
it, preventing the break away system from activat-
ing. The towed vehicle’s brakes will not be applied,
which may cause property damage, personal injury
or even death.
2. The break away wiring harness (Figure 1) connects
the break away switch to the 9700. It will be routed
through the firewall, on the driver’s side.
Look for a pre-existing hole in the firewall (or, if there
is sufficient space, a pre-existing grommet with other
wiring) close to the floor on the driver’s side, to route
the break away wiring harness through the firewall.
Note: the motorhome monitor wiring harness (Step
C) and the brake signal wire (Step D) will also be routed
through this hole.
If there is no pre-existing hole or grommet with suf-
ficient space, drill a 1/2" hole through the firewall.
Drill from the engine compartment or from the in-
terior of the vehicle, whichever is more convenient.
Before drilling, make certain you will not damage any
components on the other side of the firewall.
3. Route the wiring harness from the break away
switch to the firewall (or, from the firewall to the break
away switch, whichever is more convenient), avoiding
lines, hoses, moving parts or “hot” components such
as exhaust systems.
Where appropriate, use wire ties to secure the break
away wiring harness.
At the front of the vehicle, connect the wiring har-
ness to the break away switch.
You will connect the break away wiring harness to
the 9700 in a later step.
Figure 1
INITIAL INSTALLATION
Step B
Modifications to the
towed vehicle’s lighting system
A supplemental braking system will affect the opera-
tion of the vehicle’s tow lighting system. Use the fol-
lowing information to determine if optional accessories
must be installed in a vehicle which has been wired for
towing — or, if no lighting system has been installed,
which systems are appropriate.
1. First, identify the type of brake and turn signals in
the vehicle. There are two types — combined or sepa-
rate. In a combined system (Figure 2), the brake light
does the flashing for the turn signal; in a separate
system (Figure 2), there are amber or red turn signal
lights which are separate from the brake lights.
2. Next, test to see if the towed vehicle’s brake lights
will illuminate with the engine off — turn the ignition key
to the “tow” position, press the brake pedal, and check
the brake lights.
3. Based on whether or not the brake lights illuminate,
and the type of brake and turn signals, there are three
continued on next page
6
Modifications to the towed
vehicle’s lighting system
continued from preceding page
possibilities: 1) the brake lights illuminate and the towed
vehicle has combined lighting; 2) the brake lights il-
luminate and the towed vehicle has separate lighting;
or 3) the brake lights do not illuminate. Choose from
the appropriate list below to install either an optional
accessory or another lighting system.
(If you choose to install a system of diodes and
rewire the vehicle’s turn signals, taillights and brake
lights for towing, wiring diagrams are available at
www.roadmasterinc.com.)
1. If the brake lights illuminate and the
towed vehicle has combined lighting…
…one of the three alternatives below is required.
A. A system of diodes
(the vehicle’s turn sig-
nals, taillights and brake
lights have been rewired
for towing) with an op-
tional Brake-Lite Relay.
(This method cannot
be used in Ford vehicles
with ‘neutral tow’ kits.
See “Ford ‘neutral tow’
vehicles,” in this manual,
for wiring instructions.)
B. Install a “bulb and
socket set” (part num-
bers 152-LEDRP or 155).
C. Install a magnetic
tow light system (part
number 2120).
2. If the brake lights illuminate and the
towed vehicle has separate lighting…
…one of the four alternatives below is required.
A. A system of diodes (the vehicle’s turn signals, tail-
lights and brake lights have been rewired for towing)
with an optional Brake-Lite Relay.
(This method cannot be used in Ford vehicles with
‘neutral tow’ kits. See “Ford ‘neutral tow’ vehicles,” in
this manual, for wiring instructions.)
B. A system of diodes with the diodes jumped. This
method is also used to wire Ford vehicles with ‘neutral
tow’ kits. See Figure 15.
C. Install a “bulb and socket set” (also called a “taillight
wiring kit,” part numbers 152-LEDRP or 155).
D. Install a magnetic tow light system (part number
2120).
3. If the brake lights do not illuminate…
…an optional brake light switch must be installed.
Brake light switch kits for most popular towed vehicles
are available through ROADMASTER; visit www.road-
masterinc.com for the most current list of available kits.
Any one of the following tow lighting systems must
also be installed with the brake light switch:
• a system of diodes (the vehicle’s turn signals, tail-
lights and brake lights have been rewired for towing)
• a “bulb and socket set” (also called a “taillight
wiring kit,” part numbers 152-LEDRP or 155)
• a magnetic tow light system (part number 2120)
Step C
Install the motorhome monitor
wiring harness in the towed vehicle
When the components of the motorhome monitor
are installed and connected, an LED on the motorhome
dashboard will illuminate each time the 9700 is acti-
vated, confirming that the towed vehicle’s brakes have
been applied.
Note: there are two lengths of black wire in this kit,
each with a female bullet connector at one end. Use
the short length of wire in this step.
1. Choose a mounting point at the front of the vehicle,
near the electrical socket, for the end of the harness
with the female bullet connector. Attach the connector
with one or more of the included wire ties. Allow enough
slack so that a male bullet connector can be plugged
into and out of it.
Note: if there is an open terminal available on both
electrical sockets, you can use the existing electrical
cord to connect the monitor wiring between the two
vehicles. This method eliminates a separate patch cord,
included with the 9700 for the same purpose.
If you choose this method, cut the female bullet
connector off, and attach the monitor wire to the open
terminal on the towed vehicle’s electrical socket. Apply
a clear silicone sealant around the wire entry and set
screw indentation to help weatherproof the socket and
secure the set screw.
Later, you will use the matching terminal on the
motorhome’s electrical socket to complete the connec-
tion.
Note: if you choose this method, keep the patch
cord. If a second towed vehicle is added later, it may
not have an open terminal available on the electrical
socket.
2. Once the female bullet connector is attached, route
the monitor wiring harness through the engine com-
partment, to the driver’s side of the firewall. Use the
same route as the break away wiring harness, if that
is convenient. As before, avoid lines, hoses, moving
parts or “hot” components such as exhaust systems.
Where appropriate, use wire ties to secure the wiring
harness in place.
3. Route the motorhome monitor wiring harness
continued on next page
INITIAL INSTALLATION
Figure 2
7
Install the motorhome wiring
harness in the towed vehicle
continued from preceding page
through the same hole as the break away wiring har-
ness (Step A).
4. Next, locate the towed vehicle’s brake light switch
and, with a test light, find the “cold” side of the brake
light switch — the “cold” side of the switch does not
register voltage unless the brakes are applied. With
a 12-volt meter, verify that you have found 12 VDC+.
Then, remove the vehicle’s brake light fuse, located in
the vehicle’s fuse panel.
CAUTION
Failure to remove the brake light fuse from the
vehicle’s fuse panel may cause the vehicle’s theft
deterrent system, or other electrical system indi-
cators, to be activated if the brake pedal is de-
pressed during the installation. This may require
non-warranty repair to the vehicle.
5. Cut the brake light wire, a few inches downstream
from the “cold” side of the brake light switch.
If the Brake-Lite Relay is required…
(See the previous section — “Modifications to the
towed vehicle’s lighting system.”)
Install the Brake-Lite Relay now. The installation
instructions are included with the relay. After the Brake-
Lite Relay is installed, proceed to Step D — “Attach the
brake signal wire.”
Note: do not install the Brake-Lite Relay unless it
is required. Refer to the previous section — “Modifica-
tions to the towed vehicle’s lighting system.”
If the Brake-Lite Relay is not required…
(See the previous section — “Modifications to the
towed vehicle’s lighting system.”)
6. If necessary, trim the monitor wiring harness, then
attach the monitor wire to the brake light wire, using
the supplied yellow butt connector.
7. Ensure that the monitor wiring harness will not pres-
ent an obstacle or hazard to the driver of the vehicle,
or interfere with the operation of the vehicle. Use one
or more wire ties, if necessary, to secure the wiring
harness out of the way.
8. Reinstall the brake light fuse, which you removed
in step 4.
Step D
Attach the brake signal wire
The brake signal wire is attached to the brake light
wire(s) in the towed vehicle’s electrical harness. When
the brake signal wire is connected to the 9700 (along
with the other components of the braking system), the
9700 will be activated when the towed vehicle’s brake
lights are activated.
Note: the brake signal wire is a six-foot length of
green wire, with a female bullet connector at one end.
1. Choose a convenient point on the towed vehicle’s
tow light harness to attach the brake signal wire and
remove the protective loom covering that section of the
harness.
2a. If the towed vehicle has combined brake and turn
signal lights (Figure 2)…
• Cut the yellow wire (left turn/brake) on the harness,
and attach the ends with one of the supplied yellow
butt connectors (Figure 3). Repeat for the green wire
(right turn/brake).
• Then, run a small length of the supplied wire from
both butt connectors (Figure 3), and attach both wires
to the inputs of the included diode (Figure 3) with two
of the supplied spade connectors.
2b. If the towed vehicle has separate brake and turn
signal lights (Figure 2), the connection is the same as
above, except that only one wire (the brake light wire)
is attached to the diode…
• With a test light, determine which of the wires in the
tow light harness is the brake light wire — when the test
light is connected to the brake light wire, the test light
will illuminate when the motorhome’s brake pedal is
depressed.
• Cut the brake light wire, and connect the ends with
one of the included yellow butt connectors.
• Run a small length of the supplied wire from the
butt connector and attach the wire to the diode with
another spade connector. Use either one of the two
inputs; leave the other input empty.
2c. If the towed vehicle has magnetic tow lights…
Note: additional connectors and — depending on the
application — additional wiring will be necessary to wire a
magnetic tow light system.
• Peel back a section of the protective covering near
the plug on the electrical cable — enough to use a test light
on the wiring and, later, to attach two butt connectors.
Then, using a test light, find the left and right combined
brake and turn signal wires.
• Cut one of the combined brake and turn signal wires,
and attach the ends with a butt connector. Run a small
length of wire from the butt connector and attach a female
bullet connector to the end of the wire.
Attach a male bullet connector to another small length
of wire. Using one of the included spade connectors, at-
tach the other end of the wire to one of the inputs on the
diode.
Repeat for the other brake and turn signal wire.
Before towing, connect the male and female bullet
connectors.
• Trim the protective covering over the electrical cable;
wrap any exposed wiring with electrical tape.
continued on next page
INITIAL INSTALLATION
8
Attach the brake signal wire
continued from preceding page
• Connect to ground — at both vehicles, connect a wire
to any good chassis ground. Before towing, connect the
ground wires with a separate cable.
2d. If the towed vehicle has a bulb and socket (“taillight”)
wiring kit…
• Make certain that a ground connection exists be-
tween the towed vehicle and the motorhome. Otherwise,
the wiring is identical to the combined brake and turn
signal light method (2a, above).
3. Using another of the supplied spade connectors, at-
tach the bare end of the brake signal wire to the output
of the diode (Figure 3).
4. Route the brake signal wire through the engine com-
partment, to the driver’s side of the firewall. Use the
same route as the break away wiring harness and/or
the motorhome monitor wiring harness, if that is con-
venient. As before, avoid lines, hoses, moving parts
or “hot” components such as exhaust systems. Where
appropriate, use wire ties to secure the brake signal
wire in place.
5. Route the brake signal wire through the same hole
in the firewall as the break away wiring harness and
the motorhome monitor wiring harness.
6. Replace the protective loom, which you removed in
step one.
Step E
Attach the firewall grommet;
attach the wiring connectors
1. Cut through the included firewall grommet (Figure
1) on one side, and slide it over the break away wir-
ing harness, the brake signal wire and the motorhome
Figure 3
9
monitor wiring harness. Fit the grommet into the 1/2"
hole you drilled in the firewall. Feed the remaining
lengths of the brake signal wire and the break away
wiring harness through the grommet. Then seal the
grommet with a silicone sealant.
2. When the 9700 is connected and disconnected, the
9700 wiring harness will be plugged into and out of the
connectors on the break away wiring harness and the
brake signal wire.
With this in mind, choose a suitable location for the
end of the break away harness and the end of the
brake signal wire — both connectors must be within
easy reach, but must not present an obstacle or hazard
to the driver of the vehicle, or otherwise interfere with
the operation of the vehicle.
If necessary, coil the break away harness and/or the
brake signal wire. Then attach them at the point you
have selected, using one or more of the included wire
ties to secure them in place.
Step F
Install the motorhome monitor LED
Note: there are two lengths of black wire in this kit,
each with a female bullet connector at one end. Use
the long length of wire in this step.
Note: some motorhomes are manufactured with aux-
iliary wires pre-strung from the rear of the motorhome
to the dashboard, for aftermarket accessories such as
this. Call the manufacturer.
1. Attach the end of the black wire with the female
bullet connector to the back of the motorhome, near
the electrical socket.
Attach the connector with one or more of the in-
continued on next page
two) to the underside of the dash, as close to the LED
as possible.
9. Connect to power — trim the black wire, which you
routed from the back of the motorhome. (Save the ex-
cess; you may use it in the next step.) Then, connect
the black wire to both the red LED wire and the red
audio signal wire, using one of the included butt con-
nectors.
10. Connect to ground — connect the black wire from
the LED, as well as the black wire from the audio signal
circuit board, to any good chassis ground, using the
included ring terminal. (If necessary, use any excess
wire from the preceding step to extend the length of
the two ground wires.)
Step G
Test the braking system
Note: the motorhome and towed vehicle must be
stationary for the system test, and ready for towing —
all components of the braking system must be properly
connected and receiving power.
According to the manufacturer, make all adjustments
necessary to prepare the vehicle for towing. These
adjustments may include: turning the ignition key to the
‘tow’ position; pulling fuses; disconnecting the battery;
and setting the transmission to a particular gear or in
a particular sequence.
Refer to the owner’s manual, or call the dealership
or the manufacturer for vehicle-specific information.
1. Connect the 9700 according to the instructions in the
next section in this manual — “Day-to-day operation.”
Note: the 9700
pedal clamp will not
fit the brake pedals
of a small number of
late-model Volkswa-
gen vehicles, such
as the 2007 Volkswa-
gen Golf. A photo of the 2007 Golf brake pedal is shown
above.
Use the optional 9329-VW replacement pedal clamp
for these vehicles.
2. Confirm the proper operation of the supplemental
braking system: depress and hold the motorhome’s
brake pedal down. The 9700 air cylinder shaft and
pedal clamp will extend (after approximately two sec-
onds). Then, release the brake pedal. At the towed
vehicle, the 9700 air cylinder shaft and pedal clamp
will retract.
CAUTION
If the vehicle will be (or has been) wired for tow-
ing (as opposed to installing a taillight wiring kit
or magnetic tow lights), diodes must be attached
continued on next page
Figure 4
10
Attach the firewall grommet;
attach the wiring connectors
continued from preceding page
cluded wire ties. Allow enough slack so that a male
bullet connector can be plugged into and out of it.
Note: in Step C, you may have chosen to use open
terminals on the electrical sockets to connect the moni-
tor wiring between the two vehicles. If this is the case,
cut the female bullet connector off, and attach the
monitor wire to the open terminal on the motorhome
electrical socket. As before, apply a clear silicone seal-
ant around the wire entry and set screw indentation to
help weatherproof the socket and secure the set screw.
2. Once the female bullet connector is attached, route
the wire from the back of the motorhome to the under-
side of the dashboard. Avoid lines, hoses, moving parts
(slideouts, sliding generators, sliding battery trays) or
“hot” components such as exhaust systems. Where
appropriate, use wire ties to secure the wire to the
undercarriage.
3. Choose an area on the dashboard to mount the
LED. Look for a mounting point away from pre-existing
wires or components, where the LED can be easily
seen by the driver.
4. Drill a 5/16” hole through the dashboard at the point
you have chosen. Before drilling, make certain you will
not damage any components on the other side.
5. Center the LED decal (Figure 4) over the hole, and
press it down. Or, you may choose to omit the decal,
depending on your preferences.
6. From the top of the dashboard, slide the LED
through the hole, wires first, until the base of the bulb
(Figure 4) is flush to the top of the dash.
7. From the underside of the dash, fit both of the wires
through the speed nut (Figure 4). Then push the speed
nut up, against the dash, to secure the LED in place.
8. Using one or more of the supplied wire ties, attach
the audio signal circuit board (see “Components,” page
Test the braking system
continued from preceding page
in order for the 9700 to release the towed vehicle’s
brakes in tandem with the motorhome. If diodes are
not attached, the 9700 will apply braking pressure
for approximately 15 seconds each time the motor-
home brakes are applied, regardless of when the
motorhome brakes are released.
Damage to the towed vehicle’s braking system,
as well as other consequential damage, may occur.
Refer to step 10 under “Before you begin the
initial installation” for additional information.
3. Confirm that the motorhome monitor is functioning:
the LED will illuminate after the motorhome’s brake
pedal is depressed (after approximately two seconds),
and stop illuminating when the brake pedal is released.
If the LED does not illuminate…
…it may indicate that the 9700 is wired incorrect-
ly. If the 9700 is wired incorrectly, it will not brake
the towed vehicle in tandem with the motorhome.
Insufficient braking pressure will lengthen stopping
distance, and may also cause a loss of vehicular
control.
Refer to the ‘Troubleshooting’ section (under
‘Electrical’) for possible causes. If the 9700 has
been incorrectly wired, identify and correct the mis-
take, then test to ensure that the 9700 functions
properly.
4. Confirm the proper operation of the extended brak-
ing mode: depress and hold the motorhome’s brake
pedal down. The 9700 air cylinder shaft and pedal
clamp will extend. After approximately 15 seconds, the
air cylinder shaft and pedal clamp will retract.
5. Confirm the proper operation of the audio alert: de-
press and hold the towed vehicle’s brake pedal down.
After approximately 20 seconds, the motorhome moni-
tor will activate the audio alert. (To cancel the audio
alert, release the towed vehicle’s brake pedal.)
6. Confirm that the motorhome turn signals do not ac-
tivate the 9700.
CAUTION
An incorrect flasher speed may activate the 9700
unnecessarily, causing excessive brake wear or
other consequential, non-warranty damage.
If the turn signals activate the 9700, check the
turn signal flasher rating — it may be inadequate for
the motorhome-towed vehicle combination. If this
is the case, replace the flasher with one rated at
or above the number of bulbs in the motorhome-
towed vehicle combination.
INITIAL INSTALLATION
11
his section contains detailed operating instructions. Refer to this section until you become familiar with
each step. (Before connecting or disconnecting the 9700, also refer to the “Quick Reference Checklist” for
additional warnings and cautions.)
Step A
Attach the pedal clamp
1. Connect and attach the tow bar to both vehicles.
Then, according to the manufacturer, make all adjust-
ments necessary to prepare the vehicle for towing.
These adjustments may include: turning the ignition
key to the ‘tow’ position; pulling fuses; disconnecting
the battery; and setting the transmission to a particular
gear or in a particular sequence.
Refer to the owner’s manual or call the dealership
or the manufacturer for vehicle-specific information.
CAUTION
To prevent the towed vehicle from rolling, con-
nect and attach the tow bar to both vehicles before
shifting the towed vehicle’s transmission into the
proper gear for towing.
2. Slide the driver’s seat back, as far as it will go.
3. Attach the adjustable seat pad to the 9700 — screw
the adjustment knob (see “Components,” page two)
through the seat pad and into either of the two anchor
holes at the back of the 9700. (You will adjust the seat
pad in a later step.)
Note: depending on the available space in the towed
vehicle, the adjustable seat pad may be eliminated, if
that provides the best fit. Before attaching the seat pad,
test-fit the 9700, according to step 4 below, to see if
this is the case.
4. Now, position the 9700 between the driver’s seat
and the brake pedal, at the approximate position it will
sit when connected to the brake pedal.
Note: rubberized floor mats will cause the 9700 to
“climb” the driver’s seat. If the vehicle has a rubberized
floor mat, remove it when towing.
Note: if the towed vehicle has a steering wheel tilt
latch, it may be easier to position the 9700 with the
steering wheel tilted up.
Seat and/or pedal positioning systems may affect
the towed vehicle braking system.
CAUTION — for Saturn Vue and other vehicles —
If the towed vehicle’s engine must be started periodically…
Always deplete the vacuum in the vehicle’s power brake system BEFORE YOU RESUME TOWING.
If the vacuum is not released, the 9700 will apply excessive force when it is activated, which will
cause severe tire and/or brake system damage to the towed vehicle. Refer to the caution statement
on page 19 for further information.
Figure 5
12
Determine if the vehicle to be towed is equipped
with pedal presets and/or automatic seat adjust-
ments. Proper installation of the braking system
may be affected by these presets; if the vehicle
is so equipped, note the original installed posi-
tion and return to that position before towing the
vehicle.
If the seat and/or brake pedal are not at the origi-
nal installed position when the vehicle is towed, the
pedal clamp may apply excessive braking force,
which will damage the brake system and/or electri-
cal system and may cause brake or electrical sys-
tem failure, as well as other non-warranty damage.
5. Press the air relief button (Figure 5) to make certain
that all of the air in the 9700 air reservoir has been
released. If there is air in the reservoir, continue to
hold the button down until the air is released — air in
the reservoir will prevent the cylinder from extending
when you connect the brake pedal clamp to the towed
vehicle’s brake pedal.
6. Continue to hold the air relief button down, and pull
forward on the pedal clamp, to extend the air cylinder
shaft. Release the air relief button.
7. Pull the hairpin clip (Figure 6) out, then lift the slot-
ted arm (Figure 6) up and out of the way.
8. Verify that the pedal clamp is right side up, as shown
continued on next page
Attach the pedal clamp
continued from preceding page
in Figure 6 — the arrow on the sticker will point “Up”
when the pedal clamp is properly positioned.
9. Then, hold the clevis (Figure 7) and pull back on the
spring post (Figure 7), until the tabs under the pedal
clamp are wide enough to clear the brake pedal.
10. Fit the pedal clamp onto the brake pedal, so that
all four tabs are hooked around it (Figure 8). Then,
release the spring post.
Note: on the initial fitting, it may be necessary to
adjust the tabs on the pedal clamp — use pliers to bend
any or all of the tabs so that they hook around and
under the towed vehicle’s brake pedal.
Once the tabs have been adjusted to a specific
brake pedal, no further adjustment to the pedal clamp
is necessary for that vehicle.
For every subsequent vehicle, inspect the pedal
clamp on the initial fitting. Verify that all four tabs are
hooked around and under the brake pedal. If neces-
sary, bend the tabs to fit, as described above.
CAUTION
Make certain that all four tabs on the pedal clamp
are securely hooked around the brake pedal. If the
tabs are loose, the pedal clamp can rotate out of
position and hold the brake pedal down, even when
the 9700 is not activated, which will cause brake
damage or other consequential, non-warranty dam-
age.
11. Swing the slotted arm back over the spring post, fit
the spring post through one of the slots, and reattach
the hairpin clip (Figure 8).
Note: the spring post may be bent slightly with a
pair of pliers, if necessary, in order to fit it through one
of the slots.
Figure 6
Figure 7
Figure 8
Adjust the feet and the seat pad
1. Now that the pedal clamp is in place, move the 9700
forward, until the air cylinder shaft is fully retracted
(Figure 9). Make certain that the 9700 is not depress-
ing the towed vehicle’s brake pedal.
Do not move the 9700 too far forward, to the ex-
tent that the pedal clamp is depressing the brake
pedal. If the brake pedal is depressed, the brakes
will be applied continuously, which will cause se-
vere tire and/or brake system damage, as well as
other consequential, non-warranty damage.
2. If necessary, adjust the feet on the bottom of the
9700 (one at each corner — Figure 10) up or down: with
a wrench, loosen the lock nut at the top of each foot,
and then turn them clockwise or counterclockwise.
Make certain that all four feet are making contact
with the floor of the vehicle, and that the 9700 is sta-
tionary — it should not rock back and forth. (In some
vehicles, it may be necessary to remove one or more
of the feet, or it may be necessary to add one or more
optional foot extensions — see the “Optional Equipment”
section in this manual.)
3. With a wrench, tighten the lock nut at the top of
each foot extension (Figure 10).
CAUTION
Unless the lock nuts are tightened with a wrench,
the feet may vibrate loose during towing, and the
9700 may shift from the installed position. Unless
the 9700 is properly positioned, it will not function
at full capacity — the pedal clamp will not apply the
proper braking pressure against the brake pedal.
4. Find a bracing point on the front of the driver’s seat
for the adjustable seat pad — the seat pad stabilizes the
9700, keeping it down as it presses against the brake
pedal. Press the front of the seat to find the firmest
point for the seat pad.
Note: do not brace the adjustable seat pad against
plastic trim. The plastic will crack when the 9700 is
activated.
Now that you have selected a bracing point for the
adjustable seat pad, loosen the adjustment knob (see
“Components,” page two) at the back of the seat pad,
and move the seat pad up or down until the top of the
seat pad matches the height of the bracing point.
Note: the seat pad may be rotated 180 degrees or
removed entirely for a better fit. There are also two
anchor holes that the adjustment knob on the seat pad
may be threaded into, for additional fit options.
Once the height is adjusted, tighten the adjustment
knob on the seat pad.
Figure 10
5. Next, slide the driver’s seat forward, until it just
touches the adjustable seat pad. If necessary, allow
a small gap, rather than allowing the 9700 to depress
the brake pedal. Make certain that the 9700 is not
depressing the towed vehicle’s brake pedal.
The driver’s seat must not be too far forward, to
the extent that the 9700 pedal clamp is depressing
the towed vehicle’s brake pedal.
If the brake pedal is depressed, the brakes will
be applied continuously, which will cause severe
tire and/or brake system damage, as well as other
consequential, non-warranty damage.
Figure 9
Plug in the power cord
CAUTION
Check the 12-volt outlet socket before plugging
in the 9700 12-volt power cord, to make certain
that the socket has been wired correctly. The con-
tact point at the bottom of the socket should be
positive, and the outer shell around the top of the
socket should be negative. If the positive and nega-
tive connections have been reversed, the fuse in
the 9700 power cord will blow when the cord is
plugged into the 12-volt outlet.
1. Plug the 12-volt power cord into the 12-volt outlet,
and secure it by pressing the cord lock (Figure 11) into
the 12-volt outlet.
CAUTION
Push the cord lock forward, into the 12-volt out-
let, to properly secure the 12-volt power cord. If the
cord lock is not over the 12-volt outlet, the power
cord may vibrate loose, causing a loss of power
or an intermittent power supply. The 9700 will not
function without a continuous power supply.
2. The red light on the 12-volt power cord should il-
luminate. (One of the four LEDs under the “Pressure”
button will also illuminate, to indicate the current brake
pressure setting. You will adjust this setting in Step
E — “Set the brake pressure.”)
If the red light on the 12-volt power cord does not
illuminate, there is no power.
Some vehicles only have power at the outlet when
the engine is running. If there is no power, you can
install ROADMASTER’s optional 12-volt outlet kit (part
number 9332). When installed, this outlet kit will provide
power even when the engine is off.
3. When the power cord is plugged in, the air com-
pressor will run until the air reservoir is filled. Wait for
the air reservoir to fill before pressing the “Test” button
(Step D, next).
Figure 11
Step D
Test and adjust positioning;
deplete the vacuum in the power brakes
Before towing, always press the “Test” button down,
then release it — the 9700 will cycle the pedal clamp
up and down three times.
This test cycle is necessary for two reasons: 1) to
ensure that the 9700 is positioned correctly; and 2) to
deplete any stored vacuum in the towed vehicle’s power
brake system.
CAUTION
Always deplete the stored vacuum in the towed
vehicle’s power brake system before towing — press
the “Test” button down, then release it, to cycle
the pedal clamp up and down three times.
Depending on the make and model of the towed
vehicle, it may be necessary to repeat the test cycle
a second time.
If the vacuum is not released, the 9700 will apply
excessive braking force when it is activated, which
will cause severe tire and/or brake system damage
to the towed vehicle.
1. Press down on the “Test” button (Figure 12), then
release it. The 9700 will cycle the pedal clamp up and
down three times.
If the 9700 moves excessively, or interferes with
seat position controls, adjust its position. Check the
adjustable seat pad and readjust it, if necessary.
CAUTION
If the adjustable seat pad is not properly posi-
tioned, the 9700 can “climb” up the driver’s seat
— the rear of the box will rise up off the floor.
Unless the 9700 is properly positioned, it will
not function at full capacity — the pedal clamp will
not apply the proper braking pressure against the
brake pedal.
Check the adjustable seat pad after the pedal
clamp has cycled during a test. If the rear of the
box has “climbed” the driver’s seat, readjust the
seat pad so that the 9700 cannot “climb.”
Figure 12
Set the brake pressure
The brake pressure setting is the amount of force the
9700 will apply to the towed vehicle’s brakes — after the
motorhome brakes are applied, the 9700 will brake the
towed vehicle with either “light,” “medium” or “heavy”
braking pressure, according to the setting you select.
The 9700 may also be set to activate only in an
emergency break away (i.e., only if the towed vehicle
should separate — “break away” — from the motorhome).
Note: regardless of which setting you select, the
9700 will always brake with maximum pressure in a
break away — even if it is set, for example, to “Light”
braking pressure. Selecting “Break Away Condition
Only” restricts the 9700 to an emergency break away
response only; selecting “Light,” “Medium” or “Heavy”
programs the 9700 to brake the towed vehicle whenever
the motorhome brakes are applied, and also to respond
with maximum pressure in a break away.
To select a brake pressure setting…
1. When the power cord is connected to the 12-volt
outlet, one of the four LEDs below the “Pressure” but-
ton (Figure 13) will illuminate. If necessary, press the
“Pressure” button until the appropriate LED — to the left
of either “Light,” “Medium” or “Heavy” — illuminates to
confirm your choice.
Note: if the towed vehicle is a 1999 or newer Jeep
Grand Cherokee, set the pressure to “medium.”
2. If you are unsure which setting to select, set the
9700 to “Medium” and readjust it later, if you find that
you prefer more or less braking pressure.
3. The degree to which each setting will affect the
motorhome will vary, depending on the size and weight
of the motorhome in comparison to the size and weight
of the towed vehicle. A sharp pull at the motorhome
may indicate that the brake pressure is set too high — in
this instance, you may prefer to lower the setting until
the towed vehicle brakes with less force.
It is only necessary to set the braking pressure once
— after the pressure has been set, the 9700 will always
brake with the same force.
To select the break away only mode…
1. Press the “Pressure” button, according to the in-
structions above, until the LED to the left of “Break
Away Condition Only” is illuminated.
Note: in this setting, the 9700 will not brake the
towed vehicle in response to the motorhome. The 9700
will be activated only in a break away — if the towed
vehicle separates (“breaks away”), the 9700 will apply
maximum braking force to bring the vehicle to a con-
trolled stop.
Figure 13
Selecting “Break Away Condition Only” restricts
the 9700 to an emergency break away response
only. In this mode, the 9700 will not brake the towed
vehicle at any other time.
Do not select “Break Away Condition Only” if
you want the 9700 to brake the vehicle during nor-
mal towing — it will not brake the towed vehicle
in tandem with the motorhome. Braking distance
will be lengthened, and a loss of vehicular control
may also result, without the benefit of supplemental
braking.
After “Break Away Condition Only” has been se-
lected, the 9700 will remain in that mode, even after it
has been disconnected and then reconnected.
Step F
Connect the wiring harness;
test the break away system
1. Connect the 9700 wiring harness to the break away
wiring harness (two-prong connectors) and the brake
signal wire (bullet connectors).
2. At the towed vehicle, clip the steel break away cable
(Figure 1) to the large ring on the break away pin (Fig-
ure 1), then clip the other end of the steel break away
cable to the rear of the motorhome, close to the center.
3. Periodically, test the break away system — pull the
break away pin out of the break away switch. The 9700
pedal clamp will extend when the pin is pulled. Insert
the pin back into the switch. The 9700 pedal clamp will
retract.
When connecting the break away system, always
check the following:
• Connect the cable at the rear of the motorhome,
continued on next page
Connect the wiring harness;
test the break away system
continued from preceding page
close to the center. Connecting the cable toward
either side of the motorhome may cause the break
away pin to be pulled when the motorhome turns,
activating the break away system.
• Be certain there are no obstructions which would
prevent the cable from pulling freely away from the
break away switch. Do not wrap the cable around
anything — doing so could keep the cable from pull-
ing the break away pin, preventing the system from
activating in a break away.
• Make sure the cable is the correct length…
• The cable must be long enough to prevent
the break away pin from being pulled out
during normal towing — make certain there
is enough slack to allow for sharp turns. If
the cable is not long enough, the break away
system will activate even though the towed
vehicle has not detached.
• The break away cable must be longer than the
safety cables. This will prevent the break away
system from activating if a component of the
towing system has separated, but the towed
vehicle is still held by the safety cables.
• Make certain that the cable is not too long —
it should not hang down to the extent that
it may catch on obstructions, or drag on the
ground. This much slack could allow the cable
to be pulled inadvertently, activating the break
away system.
• If you have a telescoping tow bar, allow enough
slack for the tow bar arms to be fully extended.
• Except to test the breakaway system, leave the
breakaway pin in place, even when the vehicle is
not being towed. If the pin is not in place when the
9700 is connected, the break away system will be
activated. The air cylinder will immediately extend,
creating the potential for injury; it will not retract
until the pin is replaced or the unit unplugged.
Additionally, the 9700 compressor will run con-
stantly, which will damage the compressor and
drain the vehicle’s battery.
Removing the pin will also expose the interior
of the break away switch to damage from the ele-
ments. If the components of the switch are cor-
roded, the switch may only function intermittently
or not at all.
Step G
Connect the motorhome monitor patch cord
Note: if both ends of the monitor wiring harness were
connected to open terminals on the electrical sockets,
the motorhome monitor patch cord is unnecessary. Re-
fer to Steps C and F under “Initial Installation.”
1. At the towed vehicle, connect a male bullet connec-
tor on the patch cord to the female bullet connector on
the motorhome monitor wiring harness.
At the back of the motorhome, connect the other
male bullet connector on the patch cord to the female
connector on the motorhome monitor wiring harness.
Allow enough slack to prevent the patch cord from
being pulled loose when the motorhome turns. If the
cord is too long, wrap it around the towed vehicle-to-
motorhome electrical cord.
Step H
Test the braking system
Note: the motorhome and towed vehicle must be
stationary for the system test (below), and ready for
towing — all components of the braking system must be
properly connected and receiving power, and the towed
vehicle’s ignition key must be in the “tow” position.
(Before towing, make all adjustments necessary to
prepare the vehicle. These adjustments may include:
turning the ignition key to the ‘tow’ position; pulling
fuses; disconnecting the battery; and setting the trans-
mission to a particular gear or in a particular sequence.
Refer to the owner’s manual for vehicle-specific infor-
mation.)
1. Confirm the proper operation of the supplemental
braking system: depress and hold the motorhome’s
brake pedal down. The 9700 air cylinder shaft and
pedal clamp will extend (after approximately two sec-
onds). Then, release the brake pedal. At the towed
vehicle, the 9700 air cylinder shaft and pedal clamp
will retract.
2. Confirm that the motorhome monitor is functioning:
the LED will illuminate after the motorhome’s brake
pedal is depressed (after approximately two seconds),
and stop illuminating when the brake pedal is released.
If the LED does not illuminate…
…at any time when the motorhome brake pedal
is depressed, it may indicate that the 9700 is not
functioning. If the 9700 is not functioning, it will
not brake the towed vehicle in tandem with the mo-
torhome, which will lengthen stopping distance, and
may also cause a loss of vehicular control.
Refer to the ‘Troubleshooting’ section (under
‘Electrical’) to identify and correct the cause of
the malfunction, then test to ensure that the LED
and the 9700 are both operating properly.
Failure to follow these instructions may cause
property damage, personal injury or even death.
3. Confirm the proper operation of the extended
continued on next page
Responding to an audio alert
If, for any reason, the 9700 is depressing the towed
vehicle’s brake pedal continuously for approximately 20
seconds, the motorhome monitor will signal you with
an audio alert.
In addition to the audio alert, the monitor LED will
be illuminated continuously.
Stop immediately after an audio alert from the moni-
tor. The audio alert and illuminated LED are indicating
that the towed vehicle’s brake pedal is being depressed.
Significant brake system damage to the towed vehicle,
as well as other consequential damage, may result.
Identify and correct the cause of the audio alert be-
fore using the 9700.
If the monitor signals you with an audio alert,
stop immediately. Identify and correct the cause
of the audio alert before using the 9700.
Failure to respond to an audio alert, as indicated
above, may cause property damage, personal injury
or even death.
PROTECTION MODES
Extended braking protection
To protect the towed vehicle’s brakes, the 9700 will
automatically release braking pressure after an ex-
tended period of continuous braking.
To regain supplemental braking in the towed vehicle,
release and depress the motorhome’s brake pedal.
Note: activating the exhaust brakes in some mo-
torhomes may also illuminate the motorhome brake
lights. If this is the case, the 9700 will be activated
with the exhaust brakes, and will automatically release
braking pressure after an extended period of continu-
ous braking.
To regain supplemental braking in the towed vehicle,
and use an exhaust brake system of this type, cycle
the exhaust brakes on and off.
T
he 9700 has two built-in safeguards to protect the towed vehicle’s brakes. These protection modes are
described below.
Test the braking system
continued from preceding page
braking mode: depress and hold the motorhome’s
brake pedal down. The 9700 air cylinder shaft and
pedal clamp will extend. After approximately 15 sec-
onds, the air cylinder shaft and pedal clamp will re-
tract.
4. At the initial installation and periodically thereafter,
confirm the proper operation of the audio alert: depress
and hold the towed vehicle’s brake pedal down. After
approximately 20 seconds, the motorhome monitor will
activate the audio alert. (To cancel the audio alert,
release the towed vehicle’s brake pedal.)
5. At the initial installation and periodically thereafter,
confirm that the motorhome turn signals do not activate
the 9700.
CAUTION
An incorrect flasher speed may activate the 9700
unnecessarily, causing excessive brake wear or
other consequential, non-warranty damage.
If the turn signals activate the 9700, check the
turn signal flasher rating — it may be inadequate for
the motorhome-towed vehicle combination. If this
is the case, replace the flasher with one rated at
or above the number of bulbs in the motorhome-
towed vehicle combination.
QUICK REFERENCE CHECKLIST
towed vehicle and to the rear of the motorhome. Peri-
odically, test the break away system.
11. Connect the monitor patch cord to the front of the
vehicle and to the rear of the motorhome.
Note: this step is unnecessary if the monitor wiring
was connected to the electrical sockets in the towed
vehicle and the motorhome. Refer to Steps C and F
under “Initial Installation.”
12. Test to confirm the proper operation of the pedal
clamp, the motorhome monitor LED, and the extend-
ed braking protection mode. (Periodically, confirm the
proper operation of the monitor audio alert, and that
the motorhome turn signals do not activate the 9700.)
13. Make certain that the towed vehicle’s emergency
brake is released.
Failure to release the towed vehicle’s emergency
brake before towing will result in severe tire and
brake damage, or a brake system fire, or other con-
sequential damage. Damage caused by towing a
vehicle with its emergency brake on is not covered
under warranty.
CAUTION
The 9700 is designed to work with a ‘dead’ brake
pedal. Do not leave the vehicle’s engine running
while towing, as this will allow the power brakes
to function. The power brakes will cause exces-
sive braking in the towed vehicle, resulting in non-
warranty brake system and tire damage. Disconnect
the 9700 if, for any reason, you must tow with the
engine running.
CAUTION
If the towed vehicle’s engine must be started
periodically (according to the manufacturer’s in-
structions), and the 9700 is installed, stop the mo-
torhome while the towed vehicle’s engine is running.
Once the engine is turned off, press the “Test”
button down, then release it, to cycle the pedal
clamp up and down three times.
Depending on the make and model of the towed
vehicle, it may be necessary to repeat the test cycle
a second time.
If the stored vacuum in the towed vehicle’s power
brake system is not released in this manner, the
9700 will apply excessive braking force when it is
activated, which will cause severe tire and/or brake
system damage to the towed vehicle.
continued on next page
O
nce the other components of your supplementary braking system have been installed, follow the steps
below to connect the 9700 to the towed vehicle; see the next page to disconnect the 9700. For more detailed
information, refer to the appropriate section under “Day-to-day operation.”
Connecting the 9700
1. Slide the driver’s seat back, as far as it will go.
2. Position the 9700 between the driver’s seat and the
brake pedal, at the approximate position it will sit when
connected to the brake pedal.
3. Press the air relief button (Figure 5) to make certain
that all of the air in the 9700 air reservoir has been
released.
4. Attach the pedal clamp to the brake pedal.
5. Move the 9700 forward, until the air cylinder shaft
(Figure 9) is fully retracted.
6. Slide the driver’s seat forward, until it just touches
the 9700 adjustable seat pad. If necessary, allow a
small gap, rather than allowing the 9700 to depress
the brake pedal.
The driver’s seat must not be too far forward, to
the extent that the 9700 pedal clamp is depressing
the towed vehicle’s brake pedal.
If the brake pedal is depressed, the brakes will
be applied continuously, which will cause severe
tire and/or brake system damage, as well as other
consequential, non-warranty damage.
7. Plug in the 12-volt power cord, and secure it by
pressing the cord lock (Figure 11) into the 12-volt outlet.
When the power cord is plugged in, the air compres-
sor will run until the air reservoir is filled.
8. Once the air reservoir is filled, press and release
the “Test” button (Figure 12). The pedal clamp will cycle
up and down three times.
If the 9700 moves excessively, or interferes with
seat position controls, adjust its position. Check the
adjustable seat pad and readjust it, if necessary.
CAUTION
Always deplete the stored vacuum in the towed
vehicle’s power brake system before towing — press
the “Test” button down, then release it, to cycle
the pedal clamp up and down three times.
Depending on the make and model of the towed
vehicle, it may be necessary to repeat the test cycle
a second time.
If the vacuum is not released, the 9700 will apply
excessive braking force when it is activated, which
will cause severe tire and/or brake system damage
to the towed vehicle.
9. Connect the 9700 wiring harness to the break away
wiring harness and the brake signal wire.
10. Connect the break away cable to the front of the
continued from preceding page
Disconnecting the 9700
1. Pull on the cord lock (Figure 11) to release it, and
unplug the 12-volt power cord.
2. Disconnect the 9700 wiring harness from the break
away wiring harness and the brake signal wire.
3. Move the driver’s seat back, as far as it will go.
4. Press and hold the air relief button (Figure 5) until
all the air in the air reservoir is released. If necessary,
continue to hold the air relief button and move the 9700
back, to allow easier access to the brake pedal.
5. Detach the pedal clamp from the brake pedal by
reversing the attachment instructions on pages 12 and
13.
6. Once the pedal clamp is detached, wrap the 12-
volt power cord and the wiring harness around the
cord holder, and lift the 9700 out of the vehicle. (The
adjustable seat pad can be used as a handle.)
7. Disconnect the motorhome monitor patch cord from
the towed vehicle and the motorhome.
Note: this step is unnecessary if the monitor wiring
was connected to the electrical sockets in the towed
vehicle and the motorhome. Refer to Steps C and F
under “Initial Installation.”
8. Disconnect the break away cable (Figure 1) from
the front of the towed vehicle and the motorhome. Do
not remove the large ring and pin from the break away
switch.
CAUTION
Except to test the breakaway system, leave the
breakaway pin in place, even when the vehicle is
not being towed. If the pin is not in place when the
9700 is connected, the break away system will be
activated. The air cylinder will immediately extend,
creating the potential for injury; it will not retract
until the pin is replaced or the unit unplugged.
Additionally, the 9700 compressor will run con-
stantly, which will damage the compressor and
drain the vehicle’s battery.
Removing the pin will also expose the interior
of the break away switch to damage from the ele-
ments. If the components of the switch are cor-
roded, the switch may only function intermittently
or not at all.
CAUTION
Charge the towed vehicle’s battery (with a bat-
tery charger or by running the engine) after towing.
The 9700 draws power from the towed vehicle’s
battery. Depending on the age and condition of the
battery, the 9700 may drain the battery completely
if it is not charged.
QUICK REFERENCE CHECKLIST
The 9700 doesn’t fit properly in
the towed vehicle.
The pedal clamp doesn’t fit the
brake pedal securely.
The air cylinder shaft will not ex-
tend to connect the pedal clamp to
the brake pedal.
The pedal clamp does not extend
to the brake pedal, when the 9700
is properly installed.
The brake pedal clamp comes
into contact with the 9700 housing.
The towed vehicle’s seat moves
after the 9700 depresses the brake
pedal.
The 9700 “climbs” up the seat.
After towing, there is excessive
brake dust on the wheels of the
towed vehicle, and/or an unusu-
al odor near the towed vehicle’s
brakes.
Question
How do I increase or decrease
braking power?
The first time the 9700 is acti-
vated, the towed vehicle brakes with
excessive force, ‘flat-spotting’ the
tires.
Solution
Positioning
Use one or more foot extensions to elevate the 9700 over obstructions
such as duct work, a door jamb or a center console that juts into the avail-
able space. (Refer to the “Optional Equipment” section.)
Use a pair of pliers to bend the tabs of the pedal clamp for a better fit.
If the pedal clamp still doesn’t fit, contact ROADMASTER.
The air reservoir is full. Release the air by pressing the air relief button
(Figure 5).
Use an optional air cylinder shaft extension to extend the reach of the
air cylinder shaft. (Refer to the “Optional Equipment” section.)
Brake pedals that are somewhat horizontal cause the pedal clamp to tilt,
and to interfere with the 9700 housing when it retracts. Use an optional air
cylinder shaft extension to gain additional clearance. (Refer to the “Optional
Equipment” section.)
Readjust the seat and/or the adjustable seat pad. Refer to Step B in
“Day-to-day operation” — “Adjust the feet and the seat pad.”
After adjusting the seat, press the “Test” button (Figure 12) down, then
release it, to cycle the pedal clamp up and down three times. Watch the
seat as the air cylinder shaft extends and retracts — if it still moves, adjust
the seat a second time, and repeat the test cycle.
• If there is a rubberized floor mat under the 9700, remove it during tow-
ing.
• Check the position of the adjustable seat pad. The seat pad serves as
an anchor point, to keep the 9700 down as it presses the brake pedal.
Adjust the seat pad up or down, if necessary.
Brake pressure setting
Readjust the braking pressure to a lower setting. Refer to Step E in
“Day-to-day operation” — “Set the brake pressure.”
Answer
Readjust the braking pressure to a higher or lower setting. Refer to Step
E in “Day-to-day operation” — “Set the brake pressure.”
Installed in vehicle with ‘active’ brakes
The vehicle may have an ‘active’ braking system. Refer to the caution
statement on page one for information.
The fuse for the towed
vehicle’s 12-volt outlet
keeps blowing.
The compressor comes
on when the 9700 is
plugged in, but not actually
being used for braking.
Nothing happens after
proper installation.
The motorhome monitor
LED does not illuminate,
even though the brakes in
the towed vehicle are being
applied.
The 9700 doesn't stop
braking when the mo-
torhome brakes are re-
leased. It keeps braking
for about 15 seconds.
Solution
Electrical
Check the 12-volt outlet fuse size. It must be rated at 15 amps or higher. If the
towed vehicle’s fuse is not sufficient, install the optional 12-volt outlet kit (part num-
ber 9332; refer to the “Optional Equipment” section).
The 9700’s compressor may activate about every 10 minutes due to normal air
dissipation. If the compressor activates repeatedly within 10 minutes or less (when
not braking), contact ROADMASTER — you may have an air leak in the 9700.
• The 9700 will activate within two seconds after the motorhome brake pedal has
been depressed. Hold the motorhome brake pedal down for at least two seconds;
check to see if the 9700 activates.
• Verify that the 9700 is receiving a brake light signal from the motorhome — with a
test light, check for voltage at the female bullet connector (at the end of the green
brake signal wire) which is plugged into the 9700 wiring harness. If there is no
voltage, check the brake signal wire connections at the towed vehicle’s electrical
harness (Refer to “Attach the brake signal wire” under “Initial Installation.”).
• Check the towed vehicle’s battery voltage. If the battery doesn’t have sufficient
power, the 9700 will not operate.
• Check for a red light at the end of the 12-volt power cord. If there is no light,
there is no power.
• Check the fuse on the end of the 12-volt power cord. If the fuse is blown, po-
larity at the 12-volt outlet may be crossed, with positive connected to ground,
and ground to positive. Correct the wiring, and replace the fuse in the 12-volt
power cord.
• An optional 12-volt outlet kit may be required. Refer to “Before you begin the
initial installation,” in this manual.
• The operating temperature range is between -2° and +150° F (-19° to +66°
C). The 9700 will not operate at temperatures above or below this range.
• Hold the towed vehicle brake pedal down, for approximately 20 seconds. If the
audio alert activates, then one of the two connections to the LED may have worked
loose. Check both the power and the ground connections.
• Make certain that the motorhome monitor patch cord between the two vehicles
is securely connected. (Or, if you have connected the monitor wiring to the towed
vehicle and motorhome electrical sockets, make certain that the towed vehicle-to-
motorhome electrical cord is securely connected.)
• The monitor LED is connected to the towed vehicle’s brake light circuit. If the fuse
in the circuit is blown, the LED will not operate. Check the towed vehicle’s brake
lights — if they illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed, the fuse is good.
• Verify that there is an electrical ground between the motorhome and the towed
vehicle.
• Did you install the optional Brake-Lite Relay? If so, make certain that the monitor
wire is connected to the towed vehicle’s brake light wire after the brake light switch,
but before the Brake-Lite Relay — connecting the wire anywhere else will prevent
the monitor LED from functioning.
If the towed vehicle has been wired for towing (as opposed to installing a taillight
wiring kit or magnetic tow lights), diodes must be attached to the wires. If diodes
are not attached, electrical feedback through the brake light wire will prevent the
9700 from releasing braking pressure until the extended braking protection mode
overrides the brake light signal, after approximately 15 seconds.
Refer to step 10 under “Before you begin the initial installation” for additional
information.
FORD ‘NEUTRAL TOW’ VEHICLES
stalled — the towed vehicle’s brake lights will illuminate
when the brake pedal is pressed.
To wire the vehicle for towing…
There are three methods available which will allow
a towed vehicle’s turn signals, brake lights and running
lights to work in conjunction with the motorhome’s: 1)
install a bulb and socket kit (also called a ‘taillight wir-
ing kit,’ part numbers 152-LEDRP and 155); 2) install
magnetic tow lights (part number 2120); or 3) wire the
vehicle’s turn signals, taillights and brake lights for tow-
ing.
Instructions for the third method are below; instruc-
tions for the first two methods are included with the kits.
1. After you have installed a diode downstream from
the brake light switch (Figure 14), wire the vehicle’s
turn signals, taillights and brake lights for towing by
installing six diodes.
Before installing the diodes, verify that the towed
vehicle has separate brake and turn signals — on each
side, there are amber or red turn signal lights which
are separate from the brake lights (Figure 2).
Note: if the motorhome has combined brake and
turn signals, use Figure 15 to wire the towed vehicle.
If the motorhome has separate brake and turn signals,
visit www.roadmasterinc.com. Use the ‘Separate towed
vehicle to ‘separate’ motorhome’ wiring diagram, under
‘Support.’
Note: if a 3-to-2 converter has been installed in a
motorhome with separate brake and turn signals, wire
the towed vehicle according to Figure 15.
To test for a 3-to-2 converter, use a test light to find
the turn signal and brake light circuits on the motorhome
electrical socket. If the same circuit energizes both the
turn signals and the brake lights, a 3-to-2 converter has
been installed. If the turn signal and brake lights have sep-
continued on next page
To wire the vehicle
for supplemental braking…
CAUTION
If the 9700 is to be installed in any Ford vehicle
with a ‘neutral tow’ kit, do not install a Brake-Lite
Relay. Using a Brake-Lite Relay in these vehicles
may prevent disengagement of the transmission
for towing, causing severe damage to the transmis-
sion.
Install a diode, rather than a Brake-Lite Relay,
according to the instructions below.
1. Locate the towed vehicle’s brake light switch and,
with a test light, find the “cold” side of the brake light
switch — the “cold” side of the switch does not register
voltage unless the brakes are applied. With a 12-volt
meter, verify that you have found 12 VDC+.
Then, remove the brake light fuse, located in the
vehicle’s fuse panel.
CAUTION
Failure to remove the brake light fuse from the
vehicle’s fuse panel may activate the vehicle’s theft
deterrent system, or other electrical system indi-
cators, if the brake pedal is pressed during the
installation. This may require non-warranty repair
to the vehicle.
2. Next, cut the brake light wire, a few inches down-
stream from the “cold” side of the brake light switch.
3. Install the diode in line, as shown in Figure 14.
Mount the diode under the dashboard, a few inches
away from the brake light switch.
4. Reinstall the brake light fuse, which you removed
in step 1.
5. Test to verify that the diode has been properly in-
S
ome Ford vehicles, such as the Ford Explorer, are equipped with a ‘neutral tow’ kit. Use the instructions below
to wire these vehicles for supplemental braking, and for towing.
Figure 14
To wire the vehicle for towing…
continued from preceding page
arate circuits, a 3-to-2 converter has not been installed.
2. First, cut the factory turn signal, taillight and brake
light wires, as close to the lights as possible.
3. Next, install the six diodes in line, as close to the
lights as possible.
CAUTION
Attach the diodes as close to the vehicle’s lights
as possible, to avoid interaction with other circuits
which may be tied into the center brake light, the
running lights, the turn signals or the brake light
wires. Attaching the diodes further away may cause
the towed vehicle’s lights to work improperly, and
may also cause damage to other electrical compo-
nents in the vehicle.
4. On each side, jump the brake and turn signal di-
odes, as shown in Figure 15.
CAUTION
Unless the brake and turn signal diodes are
jumped, the towed vehicle’s brake light circuits will
‘override’ the motorhome’s turn signals — the towed
FORD ‘NEUTRAL TOW’ VEHICLES
vehicle’s turn signals will not operate in conjunc-
tion with the motorhome’s turn signals, as required
by law.
5. Test to verify that the diodes have been properly
installed…
A. If the motorhome has a ‘combined’ lighting sys-
tem…
1. The towed vehicle’s turn signals and brake lights
will both flash (each side) when the motorhome’s turn
signal is on; and
2. When the motorhome’s turn signal and brake
signal are both on (each side), the towed vehicle’s brake
lights will stay illuminated, while the turn signal flashes.
B. If the motorhome has a ‘separate’ lighting sys-
tem, the towed vehicle’s turn signals and brake lights
will illuminate identically to the motorhome’s.
Figure 15
12-volt extension cord (part number 9331)
This extension cord
will extend your 12-volt
outlet by six feet.
12-volt outlet kit (part number 9332)
The 9700 is powered
through the 12-volt outlet,
with the ignition key turn-
ed to the “tow” position.
If your vehicle has no
power to the outlet with
the key in this position,
use this kit.
1½" air cylinder shaft extension
(part number 9336)
This option extends the reach of the air cylinder
shaft by 1½ inches. It threads between the pedal
clamp and the cylinder shaft.
Air cylinder shaft
and foot extensions
Although the 9700 fits most vehicles as is, with
no modifications needed, it may be necessary to
gain additional clearance over obstructions on the
floor, or to extend the reach of the 9700 to ensure
a secure and stable fit.
The air cylinder shaft extensions increase the
reach of the 9700. Use an air cylinder shaft exten-
sion if the distance between the driver’s seat and
the brake pedal is too far to maintain a secure
anchor point between the seat and the adjustable
seat pad.
Use one or more foot extensions to elevate
the 9700 over obstructions such as duct work, a
door jamb or a center console that juts into the
available space.
3½" air cylinder shaft extension
(part number 9336-3)
This option extends the reach of the air cylinder
shaft by 3½ inches. It threads between the pedal
clamp and the cylinder shaft.
Foot extensions
(one extension: part number 9337
four extensions: part number 9337-4)
This option allows the 9700 to sit up to one
inch higher in the vehicle. Unscrew the included
foot, screw the extension in, and then screw the
original foot into the extension.
Second vehicle kit
(part number 98800)
If you switch the 9700
between two vehicles,
install this break away
system, and monitor and brake
light signal wiring (not pictured)
in the second vehicle.
Brake-Lite Relay (part number 88400)
The Brake-Lite Relay allows the towed vehicle’s
turn signals and brake
lights to work simulta-
neously, in conjunction with
the existing towed vehicle-to-
motorhome electrical connection.
1a. WARRANTY OF CONFORMITY AT TIME OF SALE
ROADMASTER, Inc. warrants that at the time of sale
of this product it will be free from defects in material and
manufacture and will conform to ROADMASTER’S speci-
fications for the product.
1b. CONDITIONAL ONE-YEAR WARRANTY
In addition to the preceding time-of-sale warranty, if the
product registration card is completely and accurately filled
out and mailed to ROADMASTER within thirty (30) days of
purchase, ROADMASTER will provide an additional war-
ranty that for a period of one year after sale the product
will remain in good working order, PROVIDED THAT the
product is installed and maintained in accordance with
ROADMASTER’S instructions and is not subjected to: (a)
alteration or unauthorized repairs or repairs by anyone
other than ROADMASTER or a ROADMASTER-authorized
service center, (b) misuse, abuse, commercial use, or im-
proper maintenance, (c) Acts of God (including without
limitation hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, or other severe
weather or natural phenomena), (d) failures due to prod-
ucts not supplied by ROADMASTER, or (e) other treat-
ments, uses, or installations for which the product was
not intended. This warranty extends only to the first retail
purchaser-consumer of the product and is not transferable.
EXTENDED WARRANTY PERIOD: If ROADMASTER
receives the product registration card, completely and
accurately filled out, within thirty (30) days of purchase,
ROADMASTER will enlarge the one-year warranty period
in the preceding paragraph to a period of two years.
2. DISCLAIMER OF OTHER WARRANTIES
The preceding warranties are the exclusive and sole
express warranties given by ROADMASTER. They su-
persede any prior, contrary or additional representations,
whether oral or written. No agent, representative, dealer or
employee has the authority to alter or increase the obliga-
tions or limitations of this warranty. Any implied warran-
ties, including the WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY
and any WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE, are limited in duration to thirty days or the
term of the applicable express warranty provided above,
whichever is longer.
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an
implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not
apply to you.
3. EXCLUSIVE REMEDY
FOR ANY NONCONFORMITIES
If during the applicable Warranty Period, the product
does not conform to the preceding Warranties, notify
ROADMASTER as provided below, and within a reason-
able time ROADMASTER will provide, at its option, one of
the following: (1) replacement components for any non-
conforming or defective product or components or (2) the
percentage of the purchase price for the nonconforming
product equal to the percentage of the Warranty Period
remaining when ROADMASTER is notified of the noncon-
formity. ROADMASTER will, at its option, (a) use new and/
or reconditioned parts in performing warranty repairs and
making replacement products, (b) use parts or products
of original or improved design in the repair or replace-
ment. If ROADMASTER repairs or replaces a product, its
warranty continues for the remaining portion of the origi-
nal Warranty Period or 60 days from the date of the re-
turn shipment to the customer, whichever is greater. All
replaced products and all parts removed from repaired
products become the property of ROADMASTER. ROAD-
MASTER will not provide, and will not be liable for, labor,
costs of removal or reinstallation of components, disposal,
shipping, freight, taxes, or other incidental charges.
THESE REMEDIES ARE THE EXCLUSIVE AND SOLE
REMEDIES FOR ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY.
For any breach of warranty, the Owner must telephone
ROADMASTER at 1-800-669-9690 within thirty (30) days
after discovering the nonconformity. Do not return any
product without first calling ROADMASTER and getting
a return authorization number. Returned products must
include the return authorization number and a copy of the
original invoice, bill or other proof of the date of purchase.
The date of purchase must coincide with the original war-
ranty registration card on file. ROADMASTER will au-
thorize (a) shipment of the product to ROADMASTER or
(b) repair or replacement at the nearest warranty service
center—in both cases with shipping at your expense. Do
not purchase replacement parts or pay for repair labor—you
will not be reimbursed. Compliance with the requirements
of this paragraph is a condition to coverage under the
Warranty: if these requirements are not complied with,
ROADMASTER will have no obligation to provide any rem-
edy for any breach of warranty.
4. DISCLAIMER OF INCIDENTAL
AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
IN NO EVENT SHALL ROADMASTER BE LIABLE FOR
ANY INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, INDIRECT OR CONSE-
QUENTIAL DAMAGES, WHETHER RESULTING FROM
NONDELIVERY OR FROM THE USE, MISUSE OR IN-
ABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCT OR FROM DEFECTS
IN THE PRODUCT.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of
incidental or consequential damages, so the above limita-
tion may not apply to you.
5. APPLICABLE LAW
This Warranty will be interpreted, construed, and en-
forced in all respects in accordance with the laws of the
State of Washington, without reference to its choice of law
rules. The U.N. Convention on Contracts for the Interna-
tional Sale of Goods will not apply to this Warranty.
6. SEVERABILITY
If any provision of this warranty is found to be invalid or
unenforceable, then the remainder shall have full force and
effect, and the invalid provision shall be partially enforced
to the maximum extent permitted by law to effectuate the
purpose of the agreement.
7. ADDRESS FOR NOTICES TO ROADMASTER
ROADMASTER, Inc., 6110 NE 127th Ave, Vancouver,
WA 98682
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you
may also have other rights which vary from State to State.
LIMITED WARRANTY
12-volt outlet kit (part number 9332)
Description ........................................................... 25
When to install ................................................. 4, 15
‘Active' braking systems — warning statement ........... 1
Adjustable seat pad
Attaching to the 9700 .......................................... 12
Fitting to towed vehicle ........................................ 14
Cautionary statement — positioning ..................... 15
Air cylinder shaft
Positioning when connecting the 9700 ................ 14
Air relief button ........................................................ 12
Audio alert — responding to ..................................... 18
Audio signal circuit board —
attaching during initial installation ....................... 10
Battery voltage, charging —
cautionary statement ........................................... 20
Brake light switch kit — when to install ................... 4-5
Brake light switch — test for “cold” side ..................... 8
Brake-Lite Relay — when to install ............................. 7
Brake pressure — setting ......................................... 16
Brake signal wire — initial installation ..................... 8-9
Break away — definition ....................................... 6, 16
Break away only mode, selecting ............................ 16
Break away system
Connecting the break away cable ....................... 16
Initial installation .................................................... 6
Testing ............................................................ 16-17
Combined brake and turn signal
lights — definition (Figure 2) ................................... 7
Cord lock — using .................................................... 15
Deplete the vacuum in the power brakes ................ 15
Driver’s seat — positioning
when connecting the 9700 ............................ 14, 19
Emergency brake, releasing —
warning statement ............................................... 19
Exhaust brakes — cautionary note ........................... 18
Extended braking protection .................................... 18
Feet — adjusting up or down .................................... 14
Ford ‘neutral tow' vehicles .................................. 23-24
Fuses
Removing from towed vehicle
prior to initial installation ................................... 4
Removing brake light fuse
during initial installation ..................................... 8
Grommet, firewall —
attaching during initial installation ......................... 9
LED, motorhome monitor
Attaching during initial installation .................... 9-10
Proper function ...................................................... 7
Warning statement ......................................... 11, 17
Lighting system, towed vehicle —
modifications to................................................... 6-7
Magnetic tow light system — wiring for ................... 8-9
Patch cord — connecting .......................................... 17
Pedal clamp
Pre-attachment steps ......................................... 12
Attaching to brake pedal ................................. 13
Adjusting tabs, initial installation ..................... 13
Detaching ........................................................ 20
Positioning — test and adjust ................................... 15
Power brakes — releasing vacuum —
cautionary statements ..............................12, 15, 19
Power cord — plugging in ......................................... 15
Safety definitions ..............................inside front cover
Second vehicle kit — description .............................. 25
Separate brake and turn signal
lights — definition (Figure 2) ................................... 7
Serial number — location of ..............inside front cover
Specifications ....................................inside front cover
Test and adjust positioning ...................................... 15
Test the braking system ........................... 10-11, 17-18
Turn signals — incorrect flasher
speed caution ................................................ 11, 18
Vacuum, power brakes —
cautionary statements ..............................12, 15, 19
Wiring diagrams ......................................................... 3
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We’re the suspension experts
V
ery few people would say they bought their
motorhome (or truck, van or SUV) for the sus-
pension. For most of us, the suspension is out
of sight and out of mind — even though your driving
performance, safety and comfort are all riding on those
components.
Unequal weight distribution,
worn or inadequate components,
excessive axle side play or a high-
er center of gravity can quickly
overpower a stock suspension,
even in everyday driving. Unfor-
tunately, finding a solution can be
just as frustrating as dealing with the consequences.
Do you need a custom suspension component?
Every “yes” to the following questions is a “yes” for an
anti-sway bar, a steering stabilizer and/or a trac bar…
• Does the vehicle “roll” when cornering?
• Does driving for an extended period of time leave you
physically exhausted?
• Is your rig all over the road — can’t keep it between
the lines?
• Would you lose control if one of the front tires blew
out?
• Does the steering wheel have a mind of its own?
• Do passing 18-wheelers and crosswinds rock your
vehicle back and forth?
• Is driving a ‘white knuckle’ experience?
The primary benefits of ROADMASTER
suspension components are…
• Anti-sway bars — virtually eliminate ‘body roll’ (the
vehicle rolls from side to side, especially during corner-
ing). Anti-sway bars stabilize the vehicle, keeping it level
through crosswinds and dramati-
cally improving overall handling.
• Steering stabilizers — front tire
blow out protection. Stabilizers
also automatically compensate
for oversteer caused by pot holes,
rut tracks and other unfavorable
road conditions.
• Trac bars — drastically reduce ‘wander’ (the steering
feels loose, making it difficult — and physically exhaust-
ing — to keep the vehicle in a straight line).
Each of these components will protect your vehicle
(improved tire life, reduced suspension wear, reduced
maintenance costs and improved vehicle performance)
and protect your family (better driving control, reduced
driver fatigue, more control in evasive maneuvers, and
improved driver confidence).
Every ROADMASTER suspension component…
• …is designed as a custom fit, for a specific chassis.
ROADMASTER engineering designs take into consid-
eration chassis and axle manufacturers’ specifications
(your warranty will not be affected).
continued on next page
for more information…
Call 800-669-9690, or visit www.roadmasterinc.com
Suspension Product
Benefit Comparison
— advertisement —
We’re the suspension experts
continued from preceding page
Which component is right for you?
ROADMASTER designs, engineers and manufactures
anti-sway bars, trac bars, and steering stabilizers for both
original equipment manufacturers and the aftermarket.
Anti-sway bars, trac bars and steering stabilizers work
in concert with the other components of your suspension
system to add stability and control.
Each of these components has a specific role to play.
The graph on the previous page identifies the primary
benefits of aftermarket suspension products. Each one
has value — for a specific application. It’s important to
understand and identify what you’re experiencing, so you
can select the correct product solution.
RSS Anti-Sway Bars
A remarkable improvement in stability and cornering
control — for motorhomes or any large vehicle,
especially towing combinations — is just a few bolts
away. Anti-sway bars from Roadmaster Suspension
Solutions deliver a “Wow!” difference in RV control
you’ll notice the first time you turn the wheel.
• 20 years of experience in the RV industry
• for motorhomes, trucks, vans and SUVs
• more than 60 kits, each one custom-designed for
a specific chassis and suspension system
• large diameter, cadmium-plated 4140 chromoly
steel bars, with heavy-duty polyurethane bush-
ings
• easy installation — in most cases, eight bolts
What do our customers say?
“I noticed a difference as soon as I stepped into
the motorhome — there was no rocking movement.
During a recent trip we encountered substantial
crosswinds. With the RSS anti-sway bar, I estimate
our motorhome’s sway was reduced by 90 percent.
We don’t feel anything now when a tractor trailer
blows by us.
I’m 100 percent satisfied — everyone should experi-
ence the benefit of this product.”
— Johnny Singleton, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
A HIGH-GRADE ALLOY AND A BETTER PIVOT POINT — The
stock anti-sway bar (on the right) has a small diameter, 1020 grade
spring steel, and a rubber bushing. The RSS anti-sway bar (to the
left) has a large diameter, 4140 chromoly steel, and a polyurethane
bushing, making it many times more resistant to sway.
RSS
stock
Reflex Steering Stabilizers
Your best insurance against the catastrophic con-
sequences of a front tire blow out is a Reflex Steer-
ing Stabilizer.
When you blow out a front tire, your vehicle will
make an abrupt turn toward that tire, causing you to
veer into oncoming traffic or off the road. The Reflex
Steering Stabilizer’s tempered steel springs, which
are attached to the tie rods and undercarriage, auto-
matically compensate for oversteer caused by front
tire blow outs, pot holes, rut tracks and other unfa-
vorable road conditions, as well as crosswinds and
passing 18-wheelers.
The springs react instantaneously to bring the ve-
hicle back to center.
What do our customers say?
“I had a Reflex Steering Stabilizer installed, and
the difference was night and day — my Class C
motorhome handles like a sports car. The stabilizer
keeps the steering centered, no matter what the road
throws at me. Ruts, bumps and hairpin curves are no
problem.
My steering wheel doesn’t belong to potholes any
more — it belongs to me.”
— Jerry Miller, Portland, Oregon
Davis TruTrac™ Bars
Does your motorhome vibrate from side to side?
Are “wandering,” “rut tracking” and “lazy steering”
a problem? Tired and fatigued trying to keep in line
going down the road?
Davis TruTrac bars link the chassis to the front
axle, eliminating excessive axle side play, without
affecting normal up-and-down suspension travel.
The result is precise, predictable handling. The
benefits are an immediate improvement in both ve-
hicle performance and safety, as well as increased
driver comfort — more positive control means less
driver fatigue.
What do our customers say?
“My F53 chassis would vibrate so bad that it shook
the whole motorhome. The only way to stop the vibra-
tion was to slow down to 20 mph — which almost got
me rear-ended twice. Finally my wife told me, ‘I’m not
riding in that motorhome any more.’
A mechanic told me about Davis TruTrac bars. I
had one installed and the vibrations stopped imme-
diately. I drove that motorhome for another 150,000
miles (with my wife back on board) and it was solid
as a rock.”
— John Kielty, Reno, Nevada
Time Tested • Time Proven
All illustrations and specifications contained herein are
based on the latest information available at the time of pub-
lication. ROADMASTER, Inc. reserves the right to make
changes, at any time, without notice, in material, specifica-
tions and models, or to discontinue models.
“We get your towed car there,
while stopping safely along the way.”