The SAF-HOLLAND® Tire Pilot™ Plus System is a tire inflation system designed to maintain optimal tire pressure in trailers, contributing to enhanced performance, durability, and safety. This system draws air from the tractor to pressurize the trailer's tire inflation system.
Function Description:
The primary function of the Tire Pilot Plus system is to automatically monitor and adjust tire pressure to a pre-set level. This helps prevent issues associated with under-inflated or over-inflated tires, such as premature tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential safety hazards. The system includes a regulator assembly that controls the air pressure supplied to the tires, ensuring consistent inflation. In cases where tire pressure deviates significantly from the set point, a warning light illuminates to alert the operator, indicating that service attention is required. The system is designed to relieve excess tire pressure up to a maximum of 4 psi above the regulator setting, with manual relief needed for higher overpressure conditions.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power Supply: The system requires a minimum of 12 volts DC.
- Air Pressure Supply: The incoming air pressure from the tractor must be at least 10 psi greater than the desired tire pressure setting. For high-pressure scenarios, incoming pressure should be greater than 100 psi or the desired tire pressure + 10 psi, whichever is higher.
- Leak Rate: During performance testing, the system's leak rate should be less than 1 psi per minute.
- Axle Compatibility: The system is compatible with both tapered and parallel spindles.
- Multi-Axle Support: For trailers with more than three axles or those requiring two different tire pressure settings, multiple regulator assemblies are necessary. Each regulator assembly will have its own LED warning light.
- Air Line Routing: The system utilizes 1/4" DOT tubing for air lines, which are routed through the axle and connected to spindle plugs and a vent fitting. Protective loom is recommended for air lines within the axle and along the trailer sub-frame to prevent chaffing.
- Ventilation: Axle vents are crucial for the Tire Pilot Plus system, as it does not vent through the wheel end. Failure to install these vents can lead to pressure buildup and potential wheel end lube leaks.
- Warning Light: An LED warning light is installed on the roadside of the trailer, approximately six feet from the bottom, to indicate significant pressure deviations (20 psi or more below the regulator setting).
Usage Features:
- Automatic Pressure Regulation: The system continuously monitors and adjusts tire pressure, reducing the need for manual checks and adjustments.
- Warning Indicator: An illuminated warning light provides a clear visual alert to the driver when tire pressure falls significantly below the set point, prompting timely maintenance.
- Simplified Installation: The manual provides detailed instructions for installation, including drilling and tapping the axle, routing air lines, and connecting the regulator assembly.
- Compatibility with Various Suspensions: The system can be installed on both sliding and fixed frame suspensions, with specific serial tag locations for identification.
- Off-Road Operation Considerations: The manual emphasizes observing the trailer manufacturer's recommendations for off-road operation to prevent damage and maintain suspension system performance.
Maintenance Features:
- Troubleshooting Chart: A comprehensive troubleshooting chart is provided to diagnose common issues, such as low or high tire pressure, and offers possible causes and remedies.
- Leak Detection: The system can be leak-checked by installing a pressure gauge on the outlet of the control box and observing the leak rate. Soapy water can be used to identify leaks in air lines and fittings.
- Component Replacement: The manual recommends using only SAF-HOLLAND Original Parts for replacements to ensure optimal performance and maintain warranty validity.
- Regular Inspections: The system requires periodic checks of air and power supply, regulator settings, and air flow to ensure proper functionality.
- Protective Loom: The use of protective loom over air lines is a key maintenance recommendation to prevent chaffing and potential system shutdown.
- Hubcap Installation: Proper torque (12-16 ft-lbs in an opposing pattern) for hubcap bolts is specified to ensure secure installation and prevent leaks.
- Tire Hose Connections: Tire hose fittings should be hand-tightened to avoid damage to internal O-rings and potential leaks. Regular inspection of O-rings is advised.