Should A Breakaway Cable Be Longer Or Shorter Than The Safety Chains?
Updated 09/02/2025 | Published 08/06/2025
Question:
should a breakaway cable be shorter than the safety chains so as to engage first the switch. I have a coiled cable that is 2 feet longer than the safety chains on my rv.is this normal. everything I have read says its not.
asked by: Chris A
Expert Reply:
Hello Chris, good question. The breakaway cable should be slightly longer than the safety chains. This is 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. 2 feet might be a bit much so you might want to cut that down by a foot or so.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Excel RV Tankless Water Heater - Gas - Electric Ignition - Vent Free - 38,000 Btu
- RV Water Heater
- Tankless Water Heater
- Gas and Electric
- 20000 - 40000 Btu
- 22-5/8L x 17-1/4W Inch Cutout
- 11L x 14-5/8W x 5-1/4D Inch
- Excel
more information >
Continue Researching
- Article: Converting Your RV Water Heater to Tankless
- Q&A: Will Excell Tankless Water Heater # EX93FR Work with 2000 American Star XL
- Q&A: Height Of The Excel RV Tankless Water Heater And Clearance Needed For Installation
- Article: 30-Amp and 50-Amp RV Service: What's the Difference?
- Q&A: Troubleshooting A Fogatti Tankless Water Heater In Frost Protection Mode
- Q&A: Looking For Electric Brakes And Hub/Drums For Lippert 3,500 lb Axle
- Q&A: Mounting Instructions For The Excel RV Tankless Water Heater # EX93FR
- Q&A: What are the Correct Bearings, Races, and Seals for 4,400 Pound Axle?
- Q&A: Troubleshooting An Excel Tankless Water Heater That Isn't Heating Water
- Article: Ram Trailer Tow Prep Package
- Article: RV Propane 101: How Does My RV's Propane System Work?
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Article: RV Pre-Departure Checklist
- Article: 5 Reasons to Convert Your RV Lights to LEDs Today
Jesse M.
9/2/2025
Hey Chris, did you decide to adjust the length of your breakaway cable? I'm curious to know if it helped ensure the brakes engage properly. Your experience could be really helpful for others with similar setups.