Why Does Engager Break-Away System On Horse Trailer Drain Battery On Vehicle and Trailer?

Published 04/03/2024

Products Featured in This Question

Hopkins Engager Trailer Breakaway Kit w/ Charger, LED Tester, and 5 Ah Battery - Side Load

(754)

$62.18

Buyers Products Toggle Switch with 2 Blade Terminals - Recessed Panel Mount - 12 Volt

(35)

$7.00

Seaflo Encased Battery Disconnect Switch with Key for Boats and RVs - 1,250 Amps

(5)

$19.82

Question:

I have a Engager break-away system on a horse trailer I just bought. If I leave it hooked up to tow vehicle it draws the battery dead . If I unhook tow vehicle it draws trailer battery dead . I am going to put in a toggle switch to the break-away. There are three wires. White ground blue brake black lead . What wire should I connect the toggle switch to ? The black

asked by: Daniel H

Expert Reply:

The Hopkins Engager Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit # 20099 should not be draining the battery from your vehicle or from the breakaway battery unless the cable is pulled out. What could be happening is the breakaway Battery # HM20008 is unable to hold a charge and when connected to your vehicle it is trying to charge the battery which kills the vehicle battery. But when disconnected since the battery cannot maintain a charge it also dies very quickly.

If you still want to use a toggle use one like the Buyers # 337SW911 or a Disconnect # SE63FR use it on the ground(white) wire as this will be much safer than having it on one of the power wires.

expert reply by: Bud M