Electric brake question

[old hunter]

On my breakaway switch on my trailer would that only activate when pulled and there is power to the plug from the tow vehicle?Just thought of it as I am putting her away for the year and figured that must be the case because nobody ever mentions pulling the switch for use as a parking brake.

[Skyliner]

Not sure I understand your question but here goes:

I wouldn't use the breakaway switch as a parking brake for long periods of time. It uses a lot of electricity and can kill your batteries in no time if not connected to a running vehicle.

Also, because the electricity is not regulated via a brake controller, using for long periods of time could cause the electromagnets to overheat.

I did use my break away switch as a parking break adjust my slider hitch which only too, a minute or two.

Of course, don't use it when in storage because it'll kill your batteries in no time.

Hope this helps answer your original question.

Take care,
Drew

[Mr. Dan]

What he said. ^^^^^
Don't do it.

[Paul S.]

Your electric brakes are only activated during movement.The magnet that is energized during braking or during a break away clamps to the rotating brake drum and expands the brake shoes. If the trailer has no motion then the magnet will clamp but the shoes will not expand due to no rotation. If the trailer starts to roll slightly it will cause the brakes to apply.

It is a good idea to pull the pin and lube it occasionally to make sure it operates freely. I have seen trailers where the pin is seized and if there was a break away the cable would snap and not activate the brakes.

[old hunter]

Thanks for the replies guys,I kind of suspected that wouldn't work without some sort of voltage.I am bringing my battery in also for the winter but didn't realize it would drain it so that's good to know.