Can or Should a Breakaway System be Used to Prevent Trailer Theft

Updated 08/16/2016 | Published 08/15/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Hopkins Engager Trailer Breakaway Kit w/ Charger, LED Tester, and 5 Ah Battery - Side Load

(747)

$60.86

Rack'Em Lock'em Magnum Wheel Lock - Steel - 12" - 20" Wheels

(231)

$159.34

Question:

Is it possible to engage break away while parked ? Considered for safety,theft prevention?Will it run battery out?

asked by: Chene F

Expert Reply:

To activate a breakaway system such as # 20099 you would just pull the pin out of the switch. With the pin removed the metal contacts inside can touch completing the circuit and supply 12 volt power from the breakaway battery to the trailer brakes. It will not release the brakes until the pin is reinserted or the battery dies. I do not recommend this as a method of theft prevention or to keep the trailer from rolling.

What I do recommend is a lock such as # RA-25. The trailer wheel cannot make a full revolution with the lock in place. I have linked a video of this lock for you.

expert reply by: Michael H