Patriot Braking System

THANK YOU

Thank you for purchasing a Patriot® Braking System from Blue Ox®. This manual is designed to make your installation simple and trouble-free. Please read it thoroughly before operating the brake. Keep your sales receipt and this manual in a safe place for future reference.

Warning: Changes or modifications to this device not expressly approved could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Safety & Compliance

This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

This equipment complies with radiation exposure limits in an uncontrolled environment. It should be installed and operated at a minimum distance of 20 cm between the radiator and your body. This transmitter must not be co-located or operated in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Welcome to the Blue Ox® Experience

Congratulations on owning a Patriot® Braking System! The inertia-based braking system combines quality components with the latest technology. After understanding proper operation and care, expect years of trouble-free service backed by a two-year limited warranty. Please read all technical documents, warnings, cautions, tips, and notes before first use. Improper installation, use, or maintenance may result in malfunction, personal injury, or property damage. Please fill out and return your warranty card or register online at www.blueox.com within ten days of delivery. Your serial number is located on the manual packaging and the bottom of your Patriot® unit.

Customer Name:

Date Purchased:

Purchased From:

Address:

City: ____________________ State: _____ Zip Code: _________

Phone Number of Dealership:

Installed By:

Service #:

Model #:

Serial #:

Notes:

⚠️ Fully understand these instructions before installing. Improper installation and/or operation can create a hazard which can cause serious injury, property damage or death. Improper installation and/or operation will void the warranty.

⚠️ Always follow the towing procedures in your vehicle's owner's manual. Do NOT modify your Patriot® in any way NOT authorized by Blue Ox®, as it will void the warranty.

DEALERS AND DISTRIBUTORS: PLEASE give these instructions to the customer so they fully understand the set-up, operation, and safety precautions of this braking system.

Unpacking Your Patriot®

Remove the Patriot® and accessories from the shipping carton. Review the parts list and diagram. Contact a Blue Ox® Dealer or Distributor, or call Customer Care at (402) 385-3051 if any items are missing.

Contents:

• 1. Patriot® Unit
• 2. 2-Way RF In-Coach Controller
• 3. Rubber Stand for RF Controller
• 4. (2) Brake Feet
• 5. Breakaway Switch
• 6. Breakaway Lanyard
• 7. Breakaway Cable
• 8. XL Top Fangs

Important: USE ONLY GENUINE FACTORY REPLACEMENT PARTS. Do NOT substitute homemade or non-typical parts. This may cause your brake to fail and result in injury or death. If repair parts or components are needed, order through your nearest Blue Ox® Dealer or Distributor, or call Customer Care at (402) 385-3051.

Product Overview

The Patriot® Brake Unit features:

• Carrying Handle: For easy transport.
• Set-up Button: Initiates the setup process.
• Actuator Arm: Extends to engage the brake pedal.
• Brake "Claw": Secures the unit to the brake pedal.
• Breakaway Port: Connection point for the breakaway system.
• Power Button: Turns the unit on/off.
• Adjustable Push Pad: Positions the unit against the seat for stability.
• RF Controller: Wireless control unit with an Information Display and 12 Volt Plug-in.

Note: The RF controller cord can wrap around the Adjustable Push Pads when stored.

Patriot® Accessories

Accessory parts can be ordered through a Blue Ox® Dealer or Distributor, or by calling Customer Care at (402) 385-3051.

• BRK2521 Brake Claw: Spring-loaded and lockable for safer, faster, and easier installs. Squeeze tabs to lock open, push release button to close.
• BRK2502 Brake Rod Extension: Use if the driver's seat does not move far enough forward to touch the brake unit, or if a low steering column/dashboard interferes with the brake.
• BRK2505 Breakaway Switch: One switch is included; an additional switch for a second vehicle can be purchased.
• BRK2520 Remote Power Cord: Replacement power cord that plugs into an in-coach USB socket.

Towed Vehicle Set-Up

1. Open the driver side door of the towed vehicle and push the driver seat back as far as possible.
2. Place the Patriot® unit on the floor.
3. Open the brake claw and secure it on the brake pedal.
4. The Patriot® can be used without the feet. If needed, attach and adjust the feet for proper height on uneven floorboards.
5. Plug in the power cord into a constant 12-volt power source. The indicator light on the cord will glow.
6. Check to ensure the towed vehicle is not running. Note: The brake needs to be reset anytime the towed vehicle is started up.
7. Press the power button. The actuator will briefly adjust itself, and indicator lights will blink. Note: Solid blue and red lights indicate too much pressure on the brake pedal. Pull the brake unit back until lights show a blinking blue and green sequence.
8. Adjust the push pad up or down for proper height position relative to the seat.
9. Slide the driver seat forward against the push pads. If lights turn solid blue and red, there is too much pressure. Slide the seat back until lights resume the normal blinking blue and green sequence. Setup cannot continue until the lights flash blue and green. Note: The seat should not put any pressure on the back of the brake unit.
10. Push the “SETUP” button. The actuator arm will cycle once and remain ready. A green power light indicates proper setup. Refer to the remote for any errors. Note: Ensure the tow brake is in Hybrid mode for hybrid vehicles or those with continuous power assist brakes.

In the Motor Coach

Find a sturdy, easy-to-reach location to mount the RF in-coach controller. The dashboard is a suggested mounting point, but any secure and accessible location will work.

Use the provided Velcro to attach one side to the mounting point and the other to the controller.

Alternatively, place the remote in the rubber stand and rest it on a flat section of the dashboard. Ensure both the dash and stand are clean and dust-free.

Note: While parked, the BRAKE button on the remote can activate the Tow Brake to confirm it's working. The vehicle needs to be moving for automatic operation.

Note: Using the Patriot® Brake with the RF controller is recommended for operational feedback. However, the brake can be used without the RF controller if necessary.

Locking Brake Claw Operating Instructions

To Open:

1. Place your thumb on the top of the claw and your pointer finger under the back ledge. Pinch your fingers together until the claw locks in place.

To Close:

1. Position the claw onto the brake pedal. Note: Adjust claw size by changing top fang mounting or switching to XL fangs.
2. Press the button on top of the claw to close, or push the front button against the brake pedal.

⚠️ Caution: Make sure your fingers are not between the upper and lower half of the claw when you press the button.

Breakaway Installation

The Breakaway system automatically applies the Patriot® brakes on your towed vehicle if the motor home separates. This emergency system is required by most states and provinces.

Mounting the Breakaway Switch

1. With the pin facing the motorhome, secure the breakaway switch onto the front of the towed vehicle in a sturdy, accessible location (driver side preferred). Note: Mount directly on the vehicle, not the tow bar or bracket. The surface must be strong enough to hold the switch and allow the pin to be pulled out cleanly.
2. Ensure the switch is securely attached and the pin can be removed without interference. Plug the cable into the breakaway switch.
3. Install the breakaway switch using a bolt and lock nut. Do not use a self-tapping screw.

Connecting the Breakaway Switch to the Patriot® Brake

Choose the method most convenient for you:

Method 1: Through the firewall

1. Look for a pre-existing hole in the firewall, or drill a ½” diameter hole and insert a grommet. Note: Avoid damaging components on either side of the firewall while drilling.
2. Route the cable through the engine compartment to the firewall, using wire ties to secure it and avoid hot or moving engine parts.
3. Insert the cable into the grommet and pull excess slack into the driver's compartment. Seal around and inside the grommet with silicone sealant.
4. Plug the cable into the Patriot® Brake. Note: Tuck the cable away when not in use.

Method 2: Feeding the cable through the door/window

1. Route the cable through the engine compartment to the rear of the hood/base of the windshield (driver's side), using nylon ties to avoid hot or moving engine parts.
2. Thread the cable through a rolled-down window or an open door. Ensure excess slack is coiled safely inside the driver's cockpit. Close the door/window after connecting.

⚠️ Be sure the breakaway cable is kept clear of the tow bar, safety cables, electrical cord, or any moving parts.

Installation Notes & Operating Instructions

Installation Notes (Hybrids):

1. With the brake plugged in and turned on, access the “FORCE” adjustment screen via the remote.
2. Use the left button to lower the Force setting past 0 until “H” (Hybrid mode) appears.
3. Press the “OK” Button. Note: Use the MAX FORCE setting in the SETUP menu to adjust brake application in Hybrid mode.

Operating Instructions:

1. Plug the 2-Way RF In-Coach Controller into an available 12-volt outlet.
2. The large number on the display shows the “FORCE” setting. Adjust this setting for more aggressive braking (raise) or less braking (lower).
3. The “MAX FORCE” setting in the SETUP menu determines the maximum brake application. Lower it for smaller vehicles or those with sensitive brakes; raise it for large vehicles or those with unresponsive brakes. Note: The “MAX FORCE” setting in the MENU can also increase or decrease braking in Hybrid Mode.
4. The “MANUAL OVERRIDE” button on the RF Controller applies the brake pedal, similar to a trailer brake, useful in wet weather.
5. When the brake is active, the Triangle indicator fills, and “BRAKE ACTIVE” appears on the remote. The BRAKING BACKLIGHT setting can be changed in the MENU.
6. If the remote screen turns yellow or red, an error has occurred. Yellow screen errors require attention but may not fully prevent brake function. Red screen errors require you to immediately pull over and address the issue. Failure to do so may cause brake damage. Contact Blue Ox® Customer Care at (402) 385-3051 for assistance.
7. Ensure the Patriot® is plugged into a constant 12V power source.
8. If a breakaway switch is installed and plugged in, the “BRK/AWAY READY” message will appear on the remote. Follow the instructions provided.
9. The Patriot® needs to be reset anytime the towed vehicle is started up.
10. If the unit is shut off for any period, repeat the set-up procedure.

Disconnecting:

1. Turn off the Patriot®. Unplug the power cord from the 12-volt accessory outlet.
2. Adjust the driver's seat as far back as possible.
3. Unhook the brake bracket from the brake pedal. Unplug the breakaway cable from the Patriot® control panel (if applicable).
4. Lift the Patriot® out of the vehicle.

Caution: Shut off the unit and unplug the RF controller when you stop driving for the day. Do not leave the unit plugged in overnight.

Remote Pairing and Error Codes

PAIRING A REMOTE

Issue: If your remote is not receiving a signal or to pair a new or unpaired remote module.

On the Remote: Press the “SETUP” button to access the SETUP menu. Press “DOWN” to choose the PAIR REMOTE option. Press “OK” to select. Press “START” and leave the remote on this screen.

On the Brake Unit: Set up the brake in the towed vehicle. Once set up, hold the “SETUP” button for 1 second. Return to the remote to ensure pairing. If paired successfully, the 4-digit code after “PAIR ACTIVE” will update to the new brake ID. Press “OK” to return to the SETUP menu, then “OK” again to return to the main screen.

Error Codes:

Errors are listed on the remote and change the RF controller screen color. Yellow screen errors require attention but may not fully prevent brake function. Red screen errors require immediate pull-over and attention.

• FLASHING ORANGE AND BLUE LIGHTS (Brake ON): Patriot® load cell fault. Setup button is pressable, but a red error light appears after setup. The brake needs service.
• SOLID RED AND BLUE LIGHTS (During Setup): Too much pressure on the brake pedal. Pull the brake unit back until lights switch to a blinking blue and green sequence.
• REMOTE MESSAGE: “REPOSITION BRAKE THEN RESTART UNIT” (with red background and audible alarm) OR “RESET BRAKE” (above triangle with audible alarm): Patriot® load cell detected pressure when fully retracted. The brake will continue to work, but the customer must reset and re-setup the brake to stop the alarm and ensure proper operation.
• REPOSITION BRAKE: If the unit fails to setup twice consecutively: Adjust push pads for better seat contact. Ensure the back of the brake unit rests against the front of the driver's seat. Note: The seat should not put pressure on the brake unit. Ensure the brake “Claw” is securely attached to the brake pedal.
• BREAKAWAY: The unit is in a BREAKAWAY state with the brake fully applied. If the vehicle is still attached and you cannot pull over, deactivate the breakaway by holding both left and right remote buttons. As soon as it is safe, pull over, secure the car, check all breakaway connections. You may continue driving if the error is cleared.
• BRAKE NOT FOUND: The RF controller is not communicating with the Patriot® Brake. If using a new remote, pair it. Check controller position. If the problem persists, contact Blue Ox® Customer Care Team.
• RESET TOW BRAKE: The brake has detected an error and will not activate until reset. If this error persists, contact customer support.
• UNRESPONSIVE BRAKE: If the brake is plugged in, the power cord shows a red light, and there is no response to remote commands, unplug the unit and wait 45 minutes for supercapacitors to drain. If this error persists, contact customer support.
• CHECK POWER CONNECTION: Appears when input voltage is below 10V, indicating a low towed car battery or loss of power. The brake idles and will not work for normal braking but will function during a breakaway. Pull over safely, check the towed vehicle, the power cord indicator light, and the battery voltage. A green status light indicates power is restored. Note: The power cord contains an AGC-10 fuse. If the red LED on the power cord does not light up, the fuse may need replacement. The Patriot® needs to be reset when the towed vehicle is started.
• LOADCELL ERROR: A fault has been detected with the Patriot load cell. Call for service.

Care and Maintenance

Your Patriot® unit requires minimal care and maintenance. Consult your Blue Ox® Dealer or Professional Installer if you are not confident performing maintenance. Periodic inspection and care are recommended.

Care:

Do NOT use any type of solvent or spray cleaner on the Patriot® Braking System. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth, then dry it with a dry cloth. Store in a clean, dry place.

Maintenance:

The power cord contains an AGC-10 fuse. If the red LED on the power cord does not light up when plugged into a working power outlet, this fuse may need to be replaced.

REMINDER: Operating temperature of the Patriot® is between -20°F and 120°F.

Customer Service Commitment

Blue Ox® is committed to providing exceptional customer care throughout your ownership. For questions regarding product performance, call the Customer Care Team at (402) 385-3051.

Visit the Blue Ox® website to see Destination America team rally schedules. For a nominal fee, a service technician can service your towing system. Factory visits include complimentary stays at the Blue Ox® campground and a factory tour.

Thank you for choosing Blue Ox® products.

© 2015 Blue Ox. One Mill Road, Industrial Park, Pender, Nebraska 68047. Phone: (402) 385-3051. Fax: (402) 385-3360. www.blueox.com