Cargo trailer electric break-away system
If the coupler or hitch fails, a properly connected and working break-away brake system will apply electric brakes on the trailer. The safety chains will keep the tow vehicle attached and as the brakes are applied at the trailer’s axles, the trailer/tow vehicle will come to a controlled stop.
The break-away brake system includes a battery, a switch, a pull-pin, and a lanyard.
Read and follow the instruction provided to you by the brake manufacturer.
If you do not have these instructions contact your trailer dealer.
The break-away brake system may be fitted with a charging capability that draws power from the tow vehicle. If the electric system on your tow vehicle does not provide power to the break-away brake battery, you must periodically charge the battery to keep the break-away brake system in working order.
Connect the pull-pin lanyard to the tow vehicle so that the pull-pin will be pulled out before all of the slack in the safety chains is taken up (see break-away brake system, figure). Do not connect the pull-pin cable to a safety chain or to the hitch ball or hitch ball assembly. This would prevent the break-away break system from operating when it’s needed.
To test the break-away brake battery, remove the pull-pin from the switch and try and pull the trailer forward. You should feel the trailer resisting being towed, but the wheels will not necessarily be locked. If the brakes do not function, do not tow the trailer until the brakes or the battery have been repaired.
Immediately replace the pull-pin back into the switch. The breakaway brake system battery discharges rapidly when the pull-pin is removed.
Do not tow the trailer with the break-away brake system ON (pin pulled out) because the brakes will overheat which can result in permanent brake failure.
If you do not use your trailer for several months, or during winter months:
- Store the battery indoors
- Charge the battery periodically as needed
Replace the break-away brake battery according to the intervals specified by the battery manufacturer.