Why is this emergency breakaway switch not working?

[geotex1]

Originally Posted by Det107

While replacing my brakes on our 5th wheel the mechanic said when you test your breakaway switch you shouldn't leave the pin out very long because they can burn out within minutes.

It is good advice. The electromagnets can overheat and breakdown. However, they are all designed to go for at least 15 minutes at full battery voltage. Can't tell you how many times I've seen people use it as a parking brake on many types of trailers...

[duradiesel]

When we bought our 5th wheel used : the women we got it from said they told her to always park it with the pin pulled from the brake away switch. we tryed every thing & the batteries were dead . Put the pin in & run the truck for a few minutes & every thing worked fine . Don't use as a park brake.

2006 2500 GMC DA

2012 Wildcat Sterling