Troubleshooting Melted Wires On Breakaway Switch

Updated 06/19/2017 | Published 06/16/2017

Question:

I just purchased a 2017 Blue Ridge fifth wheel and when backing into a spot the emergency break away pin was pulled and I continued to back a short distance before I realized what had happened. When I went to replace the pin it would not go back in and the insulation was melted off of the wires on the emergency switch. I have had this happen on my other fifth wheels and simply replaced the pin and continued on down the road. I can replace the break away switch but I must have some other problem. Any suggestions? Thanks.

asked by: Johnny R

Helpful Expert Reply:

Typically, any melted wires are an indication of a short in the wiring. You will need to check the wiring of your breakaway system, and look specifically at the wiring that connects to the battery. Look for any signs of damage or pinched or cut wires and fix as needed.

You may find that the wiring between the battery and the switch shorted out on the frame of your trailer causing the problem.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L