Troubleshooting Trailer Breakaway Wire That Didnt Activate Trailer Brakes

Question:

Breakaway trailer break. Our line hung on the ball while hooking up and broke. We got a new one and rewired it in. The break light won’t go off but don’t seem to have trailer breaks on? How can we fix it

asked by: Tammy B

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you had not just a breakaway pin pulled but a wiring issue. If not, the breakaway wasn't connected to your trailer correctly as the brakes should be activated but the trailer tail lights wouldn't be. To me it sounds like the pin is connected to the brake lights and not the brake magnets. I've attached an article to help with the connections and have also attached a couple videos and a diagram. It sounds like you may need the Hopkins Replacement Break-Away Switch, 7" Lead Wires # HM20010.

Make sure your connections are made correctly and if you still are having issues then let me know and we can continue to troubleshoot.

expert reply by: Jason S