Are There One-Time Use Electric Breakaway Kits for Trailers

Updated 12/27/2018 | Published 12/26/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter DX7.5 Drop-N-Go Brake Actuator - Drum Brakes - 2" Ball - Zinc Plated - 7,500 lbs

(48)

$355.37

Question:

I am a commercial vehicle enforcement trooper and conduct CVSA inspections. Some agency do not allow their members to function check the breakaway device by removing the electrical pigtail and the breakaway pin. CVSA warns to be aware of one time use breakaway devices. I have been inspecting commercial vehicles for over 12 years and have inspected thousands of electric brake systems. I have yet to find a one time use only device and neither has anyone I know across the country involved in CMV enforcement. I have scoured the internet and cant find a picture of one either. Other than surge brakes and the emergency feature on those, are you aware of any one time use breakaway systems or have any other information about them? Thank you in advance.

asked by: Nick W

Expert Reply:

Aside from surge brake couplers like part # 099-175-00 (like you mentioned) we have never heard of a one-time use breakaway system.

The only thing I can think of as to why you wouldn't want to test an electric breakaway kit, like the Hopkins # 20099, is because from my understanding in most states the battery must be able to lock the trailer brakes up for at least 15 minutes to be considered roadworthy. If you were to drain the battery completely by making sure they locked up for 15 minutes and then immediately sent them on their way the battery wouldn't be charged enough to hold the brakes for 15 minutes right away. It would take a bit of traveling down the road or charging the battery prior to getting back on the road for the battery to be roadworthy again.

Aside from that and the potential for the 12V power to backfeed into a controller I don't see any reason why an electric system shouldn't be tested. It would be a complete waste of money and time to purchase and install an electric breakaway kit that is only good for one use. I would ask CVSA if they have any examples from current breakaway systems that they know of so you can be sure not to test them. If they do happen to have a list for you I would love to see it (if you don't mind) so that we can be sure to let future customers and visitors to our site aware of it.

expert reply by: Jon G