TSB : Potential for Sub-Optimal Grounding through Tow Vehicle Connection

[MDuncan]

IMPORTANT TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN : 1ZP-K8A2M-11

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED

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ISSUE

Potential for Sub-Optimal Grounding through Tow Vehicle Connection

MODELS IMPACTED

2014 – 2015 Oliver Legacy Elite and Elite II models.

INFORMATION

Oliver Travel Trailers was alerted that some trailers produced during 2014 and 2015 may experience degraded braking due to a sub-optimal ground through the ball connection when an optional anti sway hitch is installed. During the affected model years some Oliver models relied upon providing a ground to the electric braking system through the connection between the tow vehicle hitch and trailer frame. This usually provides sufficient grounding capacity for the brakes to operate normally, however, a better method of grounding the trailer would be to provide a grounding bond through the 7-pin ground wire to the trailer frame. To our knowledge as of this writing, no person or equipment has suffered injury or loss due to this condition.

RESOLUTION

Owners with impacted year models should have the camper checked to ensure that the camper has a good bonding ground through the 7-pin connection.

Inspection and corrective action are only to be performed by qualified service technicians. For assistance in locating a qualified service technician or for any questions regarding this Technical Service Bulletin, contact the Oliver Travel Trailer Service Department using the information provided.

 

 

TESTING PROCESS FOR DETERMINING WHETHER OR NOT THE CAMPER IS PROPERLY GROUNDED THROUGH THE 7-PIN CONNECTION

1. Using a multimeter set to Ohms to test for continuity, connect the red lead to the 7-pin ground connection. Connect the black lead to the frame directly behind the bulldog coupler.

 

 

2. The multimeter should display 0 and beep or light up based on the type of multimeter, showing a complete path and proper bonded ground with the travel trailer frame.

 

 

3. If the multimeter displays a 0 and beeps or lights it means the frame is properly bonded with the 7-pin ground wire, no further action is required. Please fill out the inspection reply card and mail to the address below using the postage provided return envelope.

 

4. If the multimeter DOES NOT beep and displays (OL) it means the circuit is open. In this case the ground is only being provided by the connection between the trailer hitch and ball. This is an approved method of grounding however when an optional anti sway device is installed this ground could be less than optimal and could lead to degraded brake operation. To ensure optimal connectivity please proceed to the corrective action steps below for bonding the trailer frame to 7-pin ground.

 

Corrective action steps should be performed by a qualified RV service technician. For assistance in locating a qualified RV service technician or for any questions regarding this Technical Service Bulletin, contact the Oliver Travel Trailer Service Department at 866-205-2621.

 

 

POTENTIAL ITEMS NECESSARY FOR CORRECTIVE ACTION

These items should be commonly available at qualified RV service centers.

3-Port Connector

Wire Strippers

Flat Head Screwdriver

12ga. White Wire (Cut to Length)

Butt Splice, if required to lengthen ground wire for proper connection

RV SERVICE CENTER LABOR TIME GUIDE

Perform Test, Ground Good: 0.5 hrs Labor, No Parts, No Shop Supplies

Perform Test and Repair Ground: 1.0 hrs Labor, $5.00 in Parts, No Shop Supplies

*Warranty repairs are not subject to Sales & Use Tax

 

For payment or assistance please contact the Oliver Travel Trailers Service Department at 866-205-2621 or via email at service@olivertraveltrailers.com

 

Please fill out the mailed inspection card and mail using the postage provided return envelope or click here to fill out the online inspection card. If the inspection and corrective action has been preformed by a third-party qualified RV technician, please include a copy of the receipt for reimbursement.

 

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT AN INSPECTION REPLY FORM