How to buy a quality trailer breakaway kit
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How to buy a quality trailer breakaway kit

Towing a trailer or boat is something many of us do without thinking. However, it can be more dangerous than you think. Decoupling is what happens when the trailer is decoupled from the tractor and you have no control over it at all. A good quality trailer breakout kit can help with this.

Breakaway kits are self-contained systems designed to activate the trailer's electric brakes when a liftoff is detected. They are optional in some states, but required by law in others.

  • Type of trailerA: Make sure you buy a trailer breakaway kit that is sized for the type of trailer you will be towing (single axle, twin axle, or tri axle).

  • Battery: Make sure the battery is rated for the required braking power (this depends on the weight of your regular trailer loads, as well as the size of the trailer and the number of axles). You can also find rechargeable batteries on the market - they are more expensive but can provide longer life. Make sure the charger is also included.

  • Suitable for frame: you need to know where you want to mount the breakaway kit on your trailer and make sure it has enough space for the model you are considering (do not buy a kit until you know how much space is available to you as this will determine exactly what you can buy).

  • Wire lengthA: You will need to connect the breakaway kit to the brakes, which means you need to pay attention to the length of the wires included in the kit. Note that there's usually a lot of cutting and splicing going on here, so unless you're into electricity, doing it yourself is probably not a good idea.

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