How to Release the Brakes on a Trailer Once the Break Away Switch Is Activated
Updated 10/02/2020 | Published 06/30/2012
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Question:
My breakaway switch cable did snag on some debris last night. It activated the brakes and now the trailer is sitting along Interstate 90. How can I get the trailer rolling again?
asked by: Joe R
Expert Reply:
If you still have the plunger end that goes in the break away switch, then you can simply insert the plunger back into the switch and that should cut off the power to the brakes on your trailer.
If you no longer have the plunger, then you can either remove the break away battery or cut one of the wires going to or from the break away switch. One wire is coming from the break away battery and the other is going to the brake circuit on the trailer. Cutting one of those wires will terminate the signal going to the trailers brake circuit. I have attached a photo showing where you can cut.
Do not cut the brake wire on the trailer, just the wire from the break away switch to the brake circuit on the trailer.
I have attached an FAQ article on break away switches for you to check out. You may also be interested in a replacement break away switch, # 3802348, to replace your current switch.
Jeff T.
3/2/2020
Thank you for the response. Apparently on my trailer, backing up about two feet is required to disengage the brakes, I did this this morning and they released. Pulled the cable, backed up to release and Im good to go and insured that the new system is working correctly.
Chris R.
3/3/2020
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Jeffrey T.
3/1/2020
My cable got pulled out while in storage, I purchased a new break away system and cut the wires to install the new one. But, my brakes are still locked up and I cannot move my trailer.