Replacing Breakaway System Switch on Lacrosse Travel Trailer

Question:

Hello I have a 36foot 2 axle lacrosse travel trailer. I noticed that the breakaway switch was melted. I assume I or the previous owner must have had the 7 pin plugged in for some period of time without having the pin in the breakaway switch ed. I wasnt aware that would fry the breakaway switch or brake controller live and learn. My tow vehicle is a 2013 f150 with the ford factory brake controller. The trailer is second hand and honestly I dont know if the breakaway switch has ever functioned properly. Until today I just plugged it in and went. I ped something under the trailer and when I was retrieving it I noticed the melted switch not great I know. Brake controller seems to be fine. Tested with hand control and brakes are engaging. I am looking for a replacement for the bargman breakaway switch. Is there a switch available that has some type off testing functionality besides trying to pull the trailer without the 7 pin or breakaway pull cord ed? Are all switches compatible? What is the best? I saw an all metal switch by tekonsha, is this switch any more reliable than a nylon switch? Are there any switches made to take the voltage and offer protection to the brake controller/ tow vehicle if the switch is engaged? Thanks for your help.

asked by: Sean

Expert Reply:

All the breakaway switches we offer serve the same function and are pretty much interchangeable as long as the switch on your trailer is normally closed. The circuit is normally closed until the switch pin is pulled, which closes the circuit and allows the voltage from the battery to reach the trailer brakes. Just because the system you currently have uses a switch from Bargmann, doesn't mean your replacement needs to be of that brand too.

The Hopkins replacement breakaway switch, part # HM20060 features an LED lamp which tells you that power is reaching the switch, which is why I'd recommend it. The Tekonsha replacement switches we offer feature metal brackets that mount them to the trailer, but the housing and breakaway pins are composite plastic.

All the switches are designed to withstand 12-volts being delivered to the trailer brakes until the batteries deplete, which should be about 15 minutes.

In addition to replacing the switch, I'd carefully examine the entire breakaway system to ensure everything is wired correctly and the battery is still holding a charge. Due to the importance of having a functional system, I'd consider just replacing the whole thing with a replacement like the Hopkins Engager, part # 20400 would provide you with the peace of mind that the breakaway system is brand-new and functional.

expert reply by: Mike L