How to Use Manual Overrides on TFT RC Monitors | Monsoon, Tornado, Typhoon, Tsunami, Hurricane, and EF1

Remote-controlled (RC) firefighting monitors are designed for precision and safety on the fireground. But if power is lost, knowing how to manually override your monitor is critical. This guide explains how to operate the manual override system on Task Force Tips (TFT) RC monitors, including the Monsoon, Tornado, Typhoon, Tsunami, Hurricane and the EF1 monitor.

Why Manual Override Matters

Power interruptions can occur for several reasons, such as electrical issues on the apparatus, a disconnected power supply, or an emergency shutdown. In these cases, the ability to move the monitor manually ensures you can clear an obstruction, safely stow or park the monitor, and keep operations moving without unnecessary delay. 

Manual Override on Monsoon, Tornado, Typhoon, Tsunami, and Hurricane Monitors

Most of TFT’s monitors are designed with built-in manual override features.

Identifying Power Loss

On the Monsoon, Tornado, Typhoon, Tsunami, and Hurricane models, you can confirm whether power has been lost by looking at the power LED on the front keypad. If the LED is not lit, the monitor is no longer receiving electrical power.

Steps to Manually Operate

To move the monitor without power:

  1. Locate the manual override knobs positioned on the outside of the monitor. One knob is used for vertical (up and down) movement, and the other is used for horizontal (left and right) movement.
  2. Grasp the knob firmly and rotate it in the direction you need.
  3. Continue turning the knob until the monitor is cleared of obstructions or parked in the desired position.

Because the knobs are part of the monitor’s design, no additional tools are required to operate these models manually.

Manual Override on the EF1

The EF1 monitor is built differently from many other TFT monitors. It does not include a keypad, which makes it more difficult to confirm if power is lost at a glance. In addition, it does not have external manual override knobs.

Tools Needed

The EF1 requires a one-quarter inch Allen wrench (hex key) for manual movement.

Steps to Manually Operate

To move the EF1 without power:

  1. Identify the aluminum caps on the top of each axis. These cover the access points for both the vertical and horizontal movements.
  2. Remove the aluminum cap by popping it off. This will expose the hex fitting beneath.
  3. Insert the one-quarter inch Allen wrench into the fitting.
  4. Rotate the wrench to move the monitor in the desired direction.
  5. Repeat the same process for either vertical or horizontal adjustments.

Because the EF1 requires a tool for manual operation, it is best practice to keep a one-quarter inch Allen wrench stored on the apparatus or mounted near the monitor for quick access.

Common Situations Where Power Loss Happens

While rare, electrical interruptions can occur during active operations. Understanding the most common causes can help crews respond quickly.

  • Apparatus electrical system faults: Blown fuses, wiring issues, or low voltage can cut power to the monitor.
  • Disconnected or damaged cables: Vibrations, impacts, or accidental pulls can loosen connectors.
  • Battery drain in stationary setups: If monitors are used on trailers, portable rigs, or training props, power loss may happen when batteries are not maintained.
  • Emergency stops: If the system is shut down quickly for safety, the monitor may remain in an obstructive position.

In any of these cases, manual override is the fastest way to regain control of the water stream or to stow the monitor.

Key Takeaways

  • The Monsoon, Tornado, Typhoon, Tsunami, and Hurricane monitors all use external manual override knobs that can be turned by hand.
  • The EF1 monitor does not include knobs and requires a one-quarter inch Allen wrench to move manually.
  • Common causes of power loss include electrical faults, damaged connections, battery issues, or emergency stops.
  • Always confirm whether power is available before switching to manual operation.
  • A troubleshooting checklist can save time, but manual overrides are always available if needed.

Knowing how to use manual overrides keeps your crew in control and ensures safe, uninterrupted firefighting operations, even when power systems fail.

Still need help? Contact our service department for personalized assistance!