Will A Breakaway Kit Operate Properly Without An Auxiliary Battery

Question:

Will a breakaway kit operate properly without a secondary external battery connection to the kit? Thanks!

asked by: Chris B

Helpful Expert Reply:

It is possible to operate a breakaway switch from the trailer's main battery but it is not recommended. The breakaway kit may not function properly in emergency situations because the trailer's main battery has other accessories powered from it which may drain some of its power. The auxiliary battery that comes with breakaway kits such as part # 20400 will be kept at a full charge from the trailer wiring 12 volt power because it has a built in battery charger.

Most states require by law that the breakaway switch have it's own battery that can keep the brakes locked for at least 15 minutes if the trailer was to disconnect during towing.

expert reply by: Heather A