Trailer Breakaway System Operation And Troubleshooting

Published 02/17/2017

Question:

We just worked on a customers machine which is a Ditch Witch FX60 mounted on a trailer. Basically, its a tandem axle design and the customer thinks the brakes should lock up if the pin is pulled. This vehicle will stop the wheels from turning but will not lock up. He says their not with D.O.T. compliance but the emergency pull pin operation works as it should in my opinion. I know you some lighter vehicles might lock up but this machine is over 5000 lbs. What say you? Thank you in advance for your reply

asked by: Eric K

Expert Reply:

The brakes shouldn't necessarily lock up, but the brakes should quickly bring the trailer to a safe stop. The weight of the trailer shouldn't matter if the breakaway kit and the trailer brakes are working properly. All trailer from utility to RV with a much larger weight capacity than the 5,000 lbs you mentioned use breakaways like the Hopkins # 20400.

If it isn't functioning to a safe level, there is a need to fix something. It may be a ground, it may be a brake magnet, it may be that you need to adjust the brake shoes.

expert reply by: Jason S