How Long Should a Trailer Breakaway Cable Be

Updated 06/02/2014 | Published 05/31/2014

Question:

how long does this need to be? how do you figure this distance out?

asked by: Debi

Expert Reply:

The best length for the cable of a breakaway system like the Tow Ready Trailer Break Away Kit # 50-85-313 that you referenced will be just a bit longer than the safety chains.

The breakaway cable should be longer than the safety chains according to RVIA Recreational Vehicle Industry Association. This will activate the brakes in the event you lose the trailer connection and the safety chains fail which will bring the trailer to a stop.

expert reply by: Jameson C