Breakaway Brake Switch Problem
What to do if you accidentally pull the plunger...
From a reader in the Airstream Addicts Group
Hi everyone!
So I did it... pulled the truck away while unhitching and forgot to disconnect trailer emergency brake ... It disconnected so I simply put the male piece back into the female piece. Is that all I have to do to reset it? It's at the campsite now so no mechanic around (unless it's me). - Michael
Hey Michael,
Not to worry, this is a simple fix that you need to do quickly, or bad things may happen…
Plug the plunger back into the switch pretty quickly since the brakes will be pulling around 12 amperes of current from the house battery. That will completely discharge a 100Ah battery in about 8 hours.
You can melt the breakaway switch!
If you leave the plunger pulled out for a few hours you can melt the breakaway switch. So don’t leave it till later.
Best to test it!
You should confirm that the switch is actually off. The best way is to jack up a wheel and make sure it turns freely. Or if you’re still hitched up just pull the trailer forward a few feet and make sure the brakes aren’t locked up.
More info…
Read my article on how the breakaway switch works and is wired HERE.
Great idea for a poll. I’ll make it happen!
A good polling question is how many people test their breakaway system at least once or twice a year? The switches and associated equipment are always in the elements, the switch on our Jeep is at the front bumper and is exposed not only while towing but also while driving around. Ours failed to work once while testing so it gets tested before each trip and I carry a spare.