Trailer Breakaway Switch Wiring

When it comes to trailer safety, a trailer breakaway switch is an important device that can help protect you, your vehicle, and others on the road. It’s designed to act as an emergency safety measure that kicks in if your trailer becomes detached from your vehicle so that it won’t become a hazard. In this article, we’ll explain what a trailer breakaway switch is, how it works, and answer some frequently asked questions about it.

What is a Trailer Breakaway Switch?

A trailer breakaway switch is a device that is attached to the trailer and connects to the vehicle’s battery. The switch is designed to activate when the trailer is separated from the vehicle. It stops the trailer brakes from engaging, thus ensuring that the trailer doesn’t become a runaway hazard. The switch also has a built-in cable that will pull the brake lever in case of a breakaway.

The trailer breakaway switch is designed to trip within a few seconds of separation. This helps to ensure that the trailer brakes will be engaged before the trailer starts rolling away. This is especially important if the trailer is still attached to the vehicle via a safety chain.

How Does a Trailer Breakaway Switch Work?

When the trailer breakaway switch is connected to the vehicle’s battery, it monitors the current in the battery wire. If the current drops below a certain level, then the switch will trip and the brakes on the trailer will engage.

The switch is designed to be sensitive enough to trip even when the trailer is just slightly separated from the vehicle. This ensures that the trailer brakes are engaged before the trailer starts rolling away and becomes a hazard.

What Are the Three Wires on a Trailer Breakaway Switch?

A trailer breakaway switch typically has three wires: one for the battery, one that connects to the trailer brakes, and one that connects to a backup power source. The battery wire is connected to the vehicle’s battery, the brake wire is connected to the trailer brakes, and the backup wire is connected to a second power source, such as a 12V battery.

The battery wire provides power to the switch and the brake wire triggers the brakes when the switch is tripped. The backup wire is an optional connection that provides a secondary power source in case the primary source fails.

How Do You Wire a Trailer Breakaway Switch?

Wiring a trailer breakaway switch is relatively simple, but it’s important to follow the instructions for your specific switch and consult an electrician if you have any doubts. The process typically involves connecting the three wires to the appropriate terminals on the switch, and then connecting the other end of the wires to the appropriate terminals on the vehicle and trailer.

It’s important to make sure that the wires are securely connected and that the switch is in a safe and dry location. Make sure to also check the connections periodically to ensure that they are still secure.

What is the Purpose of a Trailer Breakaway Switch?

The purpose of a trailer breakaway switch is to act as an emergency safety measure that kicks in if the trailer becomes detached from the vehicle. By engaging the trailer brakes, the switch reduces the risk of the trailer becoming a runaway hazard.

The switch is designed to be sensitive enough to detect even slight separation of the trailer from the vehicle, ensuring that the brakes will engage before the trailer starts rolling away. This is especially important if the trailer is still attached to the vehicle via a safety chain.

Is a Trailer Breakaway Switch Required by Law?

In most states, having a trailer breakaway switch is not a legal requirement, but it is strongly recommended for any trailer with brakes. The switch offers additional protection against runaway trailers and can help protect you, your vehicle, and others on the road.

How Often Should a Trailer Breakaway Switch Be Tested?

It’s important to periodically test the trailer breakaway switch to make sure that it’s working properly. Most manufacturers recommend testing the switch every month or two. The testing process is relatively simple and can be done by a professional, or you can do it yourself if you have the right tools.

What is the Difference Between a Trailer Breakaway Switch and a Safety Chain?

A trailer breakaway switch and a safety chain are two different devices that are designed to keep a trailer from becoming a runaway hazard. A trailer breakaway switch is designed to stop the trailer brakes from engaging if the trailer becomes detached from the vehicle. A safety chain is a physical chain that is designed to keep the trailer attached to the vehicle in case of a breakaway.

Both devices are important safety measures and should be used together for maximum protection. The trailer breakaway switch should be used in combination with a safety chain to ensure that the trailer brakes are engaged before the safety chain could break.

Are Trailer Breakaway Switches Compatible With All Trailers?

Yes, trailer breakaway switches are generally compatible with all trailers. However, it’s important to check the specifications of your switch to make sure that it’s compatible with your specific trailer. Additionally, some states may have specific requirements for trailer breakaway switches, so it’s important to check with your local laws before installing one.

In conclusion, trailer breakaway switches are an important safety measure that can help protect you, your vehicle, and others on the road. The switch is designed to engage the trailer brakes in case of a breakaway to prevent the trailer from becoming a runaway hazard. It’s important to make sure that the switch is properly installed, tested regularly, and used in combination with a safety chain for maximum protection.