Can Breakaway Kit Pull Power Off of Regular 12V Trailer Battery

Updated 07/01/2020 | Published 06/30/2020

Question:

I have generator on my trailer with a 12 v battery it’s used to start the generator. Can battery use generator battery as power supply for brake away brakes.

asked by: John M

Expert Reply:

You have to have a breakaway battery kit like the Curt # C52028 for the breakaway brake function on your trailer. This is one of the things that the highway patrol will actually check for to make sure that you are pulling your trailer safely.

The reason it has to be a dedicated battery is because the breakaway battery is used as a last resort in an emergency situation so the battery HAS to be fully charged. If you were to use the same battery for your breakaway kit and other things then there can be a situation that your battery would be drained when you need it.

Attached are some articles about trailer wiring for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G