The trailer brake cable is a critical safety component that activates your trailer’s brakes in the event of a separation from the tow vehicle. Knowing where to properly hook it is essential for preventing runaway trailers and ensuring safe towing. The trailer brake cable should be connected to the tow vehicle at a dedicated mounting point independent of the hitch ball, preferably a loop or bracket specifically designed for this purpose on the tow vehicle’s hitch receiver or frame.
Understanding the Importance of Correct Cable Attachment
Connecting the trailer brake cable improperly can have disastrous consequences. Imagine the scenario: your trailer detaches. If the cable isn’t correctly attached, the emergency brakes won’t engage, and your trailer becomes an unguided missile. Choosing the right attachment point ensures the cable pulls the brakeaway switch pin when separation occurs, immediately applying the trailer brakes.
Why Not the Safety Chains?
While safety chains are also vital, they serve a different purpose: to maintain a connection between the tow vehicle and trailer, albeit a looser one, allowing for controlled deceleration and maneuvering if the hitch fails. Attaching the brake cable to a safety chain is dangerous because the chain’s slack may prevent the brakeaway switch from activating promptly, or at all. Furthermore, the chain might break under the sudden stress of activating the brakes.
Identifying the Correct Attachment Point
Most modern tow vehicles equipped for towing have a dedicated mounting point for the trailer brake cable. This is typically a small loop, bracket, or opening located near the hitch receiver. It is often identified with a label or marking. If your tow vehicle lacks a dedicated point, you may need to install an aftermarket bracket designed for this purpose. Never use the hitch ball, a wiring harness, or any part of the trailer coupling itself as an attachment point.
Step-by-Step Guide to Connecting the Trailer Brake Cable
- Identify the Dedicated Mounting Point: Locate the loop, bracket, or opening on your tow vehicle’s hitch receiver or frame that is specifically designed for the trailer brake cable.
- Check Cable Length: Ensure the cable is long enough to allow for sharp turns without pulling on the brakeaway switch. Excess slack is also undesirable as it reduces the effectiveness of the brake activation.
- Attach the Cable Securely: Connect the cable’s clip or hook securely to the dedicated mounting point. Ensure the connection is robust and won’t come loose during travel. Some cables feature a carabiner-style clip for added security.
- Test the Connection (Optional): With the trailer connected and parked on a level surface, you can carefully test the brakeaway switch. Pull the pin and verify that the trailer brakes engage immediately. Note: Only perform this test if you are confident in your ability to safely reconnect the pin and release the brakes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a brakeaway switch and why is it important?
A brakeaway switch is a safety device required on most trailers equipped with electric brakes. It’s designed to automatically apply the trailer brakes if the trailer becomes detached from the tow vehicle. The brakeaway switch is activated by a cable connected to the tow vehicle. When the cable is pulled (due to separation), it pulls a pin out of the switch, completing an electrical circuit and activating the trailer brakes.
2. What happens if I don’t connect the trailer brake cable?
If you don’t connect the trailer brake cable and your trailer separates from your tow vehicle, the trailer brakes will not automatically engage. This will result in a runaway trailer, posing a significant danger to yourself, other drivers, and property. It also violates the law in most jurisdictions.
3. My tow vehicle doesn’t have a dedicated mounting point. What should I do?
If your tow vehicle lacks a dedicated mounting point, you must install an aftermarket bracket specifically designed for trailer brake cable attachment. These brackets are readily available at most trailer supply stores and online retailers. Choose a bracket that is compatible with your hitch receiver and vehicle frame, and install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Can I extend the trailer brake cable if it’s too short?
Yes, you can extend the trailer brake cable. However, it’s crucial to use a high-quality extension specifically designed for brakeaway switch cables. Ensure the extension is properly connected and that the total cable length is sufficient to allow for full turning radius without activating the brakeaway switch prematurely. Improper extensions can compromise the switch’s function.
5. How often should I inspect the trailer brake cable?
You should inspect the trailer brake cable before each towing trip. Look for signs of wear, fraying, rust, or damage to the cable, clip, or brakeaway switch. Replace any damaged components immediately. Regular inspection is crucial for maintaining the safety and reliability of your trailer brake system.
6. What is the difference between a trailer brake cable and a safety chain?
A trailer brake cable activates the trailer’s brakes if the trailer separates from the tow vehicle. Safety chains are designed to keep the trailer connected to the tow vehicle, albeit loosely, in case the hitch fails. Both are crucial safety components, but they serve different purposes. Safety chains provide a secondary connection, allowing for a degree of control, while the brake cable provides immediate braking in a complete separation scenario.
7. Can I use the trailer wiring harness as an attachment point?
Never use the trailer wiring harness as an attachment point for the trailer brake cable. The wiring harness is not designed to withstand the force required to activate the brakeaway switch and will likely break, rendering the switch useless. Additionally, damaging the wiring harness can compromise other essential trailer functions like lights and turn signals.
8. My brakeaway switch activates when I make sharp turns. What’s wrong?
If your brakeaway switch activates when you make sharp turns, the trailer brake cable is likely too short. Consider using a longer cable or adding a properly rated extension. Ensure the cable has enough slack to allow for a full range of motion without pulling the pin from the brakeaway switch.
9. What are the legal requirements for trailer brake cables?
The legal requirements for trailer brake cables vary by jurisdiction. However, most states and provinces require all trailers above a certain weight to be equipped with a functioning brakeaway system, including a properly connected trailer brake cable. Consult your local regulations to ensure compliance. Ignorance of the law is no excuse, and fines or worse can result from non-compliance.
10. How do I choose the right length of trailer brake cable?
Choose a trailer brake cable that is long enough to allow for full turning radius without prematurely activating the brakeaway switch. A general guideline is to select a cable that is slightly longer than the distance between the hitch receiver and the trailer’s coupling. However, it’s best to measure the actual distance and add a few extra inches for slack.
11. Are there different types of trailer brake cables?
Yes, there are different types of trailer brake cables. They vary in length, material, and clip style. Some cables feature a plastic coating for added protection against corrosion. Others have a carabiner-style clip for a more secure connection. Choose a cable that is appropriate for your trailer and towing setup.
12. What is the best way to store the trailer brake cable when not in use?
When not in use, store the trailer brake cable in a dry and protected location. Avoid leaving it exposed to the elements, as this can lead to corrosion and damage. Coiling the cable neatly and securing it with a zip tie or velcro strap can prevent tangling and make it easier to use next time.