Replacing Break-Away System Cable and Pin on Travel Trailer

Question

Question:

The breakaway switch cable on my trailer had been dragging and is pretty worn. I just bought a replacement cable and pin. My question is can i simply pull the old pin, then replace with the new pin, without the tires locking up?

asked by: Steve M

0

Expert Reply:

The configuration of the breakaway pin can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, and between models of breakaway switches. When you pull the old pin to replace it with the new one, the brakes will indeed apply, but they should let loose when you insert the pin back into the switch.

Since the cable is the only worn part, you might be best off by just replacing the cable portion itself with a coiled cable like # RM-8603 offered from Roadmaster.

expert reply by: Mike L

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Answer 1

We don't have the specific pin, but I have a solution for you. Since Breakaway Switches are universal, I recommend you replace the entire switch with part #3802348 to go with your ESCO breakaway systems.

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Answer 2

The Replacement 42" Cable for Breakaway Switch from Bright Way Group, #3802350, will fit most models of ESCO break away switches. If you don't want to take a chance on it not fitting, I would instead recommend replacing the switch with part…

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Answer 3

If the trailer brakes activated when the pin was pulled on your breakaway you would have noticed. You would have heard the trailer dragging, felt it while towing, or seen the smoke coming off of the tires as you dragged it along. More than likely the…

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Answer 4

I can end this debate for you real fast! Trailer tires, which will have an ST in front of the size, should always be inflated to the maximum psi indicated on the tire. Trailer tires usually do not have a recommended and maximum psi indication so I am…

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Answer 5

You can absolutely wire up a 3-wire breakaway switch like the Hopkins LED Breakaway Switch with 7" Lead Wires #HM20059 to replace your 2-wire switch; the difference is that the 3-wire switch has a dedicated ground wire while the 2-wire switch…

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Answer 6

If you cannot get the pin for your breakaway system out of the switch then your best bet would be to just replace the whole unit. The Hopkins #HM20010 will accomplish this and provides you with a cost-effective repair.

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Answer 7

If you still have the plunger end that goes in the break away switch, then you can simply insert the plunger back into the switch and that should cut off the power to the brakes on your trailer. If you no longer have the plunger, then you can either…

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Answer 8

You likely can use any replacement switch since all they do is complete a circuit when the pin is pulled out. One wire on the switch should be connected to the positive battery terminal on the trailer. The other will tee into the wiring leading from…

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Answer 9

We have the correct replacement breakaway switch pin for the Demco Air Force One with the part #SM99905 which isn't black but it is the correct and only replacement we can recommend.

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Answer 10

Without knowing the actual hitch you are using, I can only give you general info. Sometimes with this issue it is because you are taking too much weight off the hitch. The hitch needs a certain amount of weight on it to function correctly and release…

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Answer 11

The length of wire desired depends on your vehicle connection and your personal preference. You want enough slack for turning, but not so much for dragging as you mentioned. A little extra slack isn't a problem and not enough could lead to stress…

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Answer 12

The great thing about Bearing Buddy like part #BB1781 is that when you add grease to your system with the included fitting, it will move the spring-loaded piston outward and allow grease to seep around the edges to keep from damaging the seal. You…

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Replacing Break-Away System Cable and Pin on Travel Trailer

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