How to Test a Trailer Breakaway System for Function
Question:
I went to get my trailer big Tex inspected they pulled the pin on the break away u can spin the wheels they changed the battery and the break away the wheels still spin with the new break away what can I do now I checked under the trailer for broken wires they all looked good
asked by: Erwincarr
Expert Reply:
I have attached a photo that shows the correct way to wire a breakaway system. If the brakes are not applied when the pin is pulled, you will need to trace each of the wires back to their origin to make sure there are no breaks or frays. If you cannot find any breaks or frays you will need to use a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 to see where the loss in connection occurs.
For example, when the pin is pulled you should see power on both wires that enter and exit the switch. If power enters the switch but does not leave, then there is a short between the switch and the wire spliced into the trailer brakes. If there is not power leading into the switch while the pin is pulled, then there is a short in the wire leading from the battery to the switch.
If all else fails, it may be time to replace the entire system with one that has a built-in tester like the Hopkins Engager Trailer Breakaway Kit part # 20099. I have attached an install/review video of this system for you as well.
Products Referenced in This Question
Hopkins Engager Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit w/ Built-In Charger - Side Load - 7" Wire
- Trailer Breakaway Kit
- Kit with Charger
- Side Load
- Single-axle
- Tandem-axle
- LED Tester
- Hopkins
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: ap216
- Video: Curt Trailer Hitch Installation - 2023 Toyota RAV4
- Shop: HitchMate TireStep Adjustable Step for SUVs, RVs and Light Trucks - 22" x 10" - 400 lbs
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Shop: Trailer Axle with Idler Hubs - 5 on 4-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 89" Long - 3,500 lbs
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Having No 12 Volt Power At 7-Way Trailer Connection On 1995 Ford F-350
- Video: Performance Tool Dual Fan Speed Heat Gun Review
- Video: Review of Performance Tool Automotive Tools - Diesel Exhaust Fluid DEF Tester - PTW16500
- Video: Performance Tool Mini Heat Gun Review
- Video: Review of FloTool Automotive Tools - 58 Quart Super Duty Drain Container With Wheels - FT42008
- Search Results: d ring tie downs
- Search Results: locking hitch pins
- Search Results: swing away jack
- Search Results: d rings
- Shop: Pollak Single-Pole, Round Pin Trailer Wiring Connector - Trailer End
- Shop: CE Smith Spare Tire Mount for Trailers - Steel - 4- and 5-Lug Wheels - 8-3/8" Long
- Shop: Pollak Black Plastic, 7-Pole, RV Blade-Style Trailer Socket - Vehicle End
- Shop: Replacement Stop/Tail Red Lens for Peterson Incandescent Square Combination Tail Lights
- Video: Redline Tires and Wheels 7-122 Review
- Video: Review of etrailer by AxleTek Trailer Axles - 3500 LB 89 Inch Long Trailer Axle - e65GR
- Search Results: torque wrench
- Search Results: spare tire mount
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Trailer Running Lights Do Not Work but Brake Lights and Turn Signals Do Work
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Article: Testing Trailer Brake Magnets for Proper Function
- Article: Troubleshooting 4 and 5-Way Wiring Installations