How to Release the Brakes on a Trailer Once the Break Away Switch Is Activated
Updated 10/02/2020 | Published 06/30/2012
Products Featured in This Question
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
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: torsion axle
- Shop: Replacement Breakaway Switch for Bright Way Trailer Breakaway Kits
- Search Results: rv roof repair
- Search Results: molle panels
- Search Results: 7way plug
- Search Results: 7~way plug
- Search Results: trailer breakaway kit accessories and parts
- Search Results: pintle lock
- Shop: Aluminum AM02 Series Black Machined Trailer Wheel - 15" x 6" Rim - 6 on 5-1/2
- Shop: Mounting Hardware for 10" Brake Assemblies
- Shop: RV Covers
- Shop: Onan Generator - QG 2800i DF Onboard RV Generator - 2,800 Watts - Gas or Propane - Preorder
- Article: Breakaway Kit Installation for Single and Dual Brake Axle Trailers
- Shop: Onan Generator - QG 7000i Onboard RV Generator - 7,000 Watts - Dual Fuel and Inverter - CARB
- Shop: Kenda Karrier ST225/75R15 Radial Tire w/ 15" Series T09 Aluminum Wheel - 6 on 5-1/2 - LR D
- Video: Review of etrailer Trailer Jack - Electric Trailer Jack - e72QV
- Video: TowSmart Black Plastic 7-Pole RV-Style Trailer Connector Installation - Flat Bed Trailer
- Video: Review of etrailer Trailer Hubs and Drums - Hub with Drum - AKHD-545-35-EZ-K
- Shop: RecEnergy Membrane Plus RV Roof Replacement Kit w/ Folded TPO Membrane - 29' Long - White
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Q&A: Comparing the eTrailer and Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Kits
- Video: Review of Valcrum Trailer Bearings Races Seals Caps - Replacement Parts Kit - VA85JR
- Video: etrailer Travel Trailer RV Covers Comprehensive Review
- Video: Hands-On with the Adco RV Cover for Travel Trailers up to 15' Long
- Q&A: Do Hubs Need to be Replaced When Replacing Trailer Brakes
- Q&A: Difference Between Dexter and etrailer Hub/Drum Assembly for 3,500 lb Axles
- Video: Detailed Breakdown of the Alpha Systems Alphabond Repair Tape for RV Roofs
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
on Trailer Breakaway Kit
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.