If you’re new to the world of trailers, then a breakaway switch is one component you might not be familiar with.
But understanding your breakaway switch, also known as a breakaway brake, is vital to ensuring safe trailer operation. You also need to understand how to test and maintain your switch so that it’s always there for you when you need it.
Even if you’re an experienced hauler, this post might be worth the review. Plus, we’ll offer some details specific to Good Trailers.
Or, you can watch the quick 36 second video below to get the highlights, the most important info you’ll need to make sure this system is working exactly as intended!
Table of Contents
What is the Breakaway System?
Imagine a scenario wherein the coupler or the hitch fails.
That’s when your breakaway system steps in. A properly connected and working breakaway brake system can apply electric brakes on the system after it detects a problem.
The safety chains keep the tow vehicle attached. As the system applies the brakes at the trailer’s axles, the trailer and tow system should be able to come to a complete, controlled stop.
Parts of the Breakaway System
The parts of the breakaway system are:
- Battery
- Switch
- Pull Pin
- Lanyard
The pull pin lanyard looks like a simple wire loop, like this.
You attach it to your tow vehicle. It connects to a pull pin that’s supposed to pull out before all the slack gets taken up in the trailer. This is how the breakaway system “detects” problems. When the line goes taut, the pull pin gets yanked from the battery, which tells the system to activate the brakes.
The “switch” is tucked into the little box that you see. It all connects to a solar battery, also located on the hitch. The attachments run through the post, as you’ll see in the photo below.
Charging the Breakaway Battery
You have a solar battery on your trailer, which theoretically means you don’t have to do anything special to charge it. But you should check it regularly to make sure it’s sufficiently charged. In the winter time or any time you won’t be using your trailer for long periods of time, consider disconnecting the battery and storing it inside so it doesn’t break or discharge.
Testing the System
It’s important to test your breakaway system before every tow. To do this, you should take the following steps.
First, jack up one wheel. Then, set it to spinning.
Pull the switch out of the breakaway break box just as if the cord had gotten pulled taut on your tow vehicle.
See if the brakes engage to stop the wheel.
Technically you should do this every time you tow, but if that’s not possible you should at least be doing it on a regular enough basis to be sure that your system works correctly. Never tow your trailer if you have a faulty breakaway brake system.
Get More Help
The team at GoodMFG® is always happy to help if you encounter any problems or are struggling to understand any part of your hydraulic drop deck trailer system. Just give our office a call at (360) 889-9789 to get expert help, and stay safe out there!
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