breakaway switch

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Feb 4, 2003 | 12:57 PM

all8_up

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New User

Joined: Mar 2002

Posts: 12

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From: US

breakaway switch

I'm going to be pulling a 2300 lb trailer that has trailer brakes (7pin) but no breakaway switch. I'm new to towing. Is this switch required in all states? Does anyone knowof a web site with state by state requirements I can go to. I'm going to pull this across several states one time one way only so I hate to invest in a switch setup if I don't have to.

Feb 4, 2003 | 06:04 PM

69_bronco

Senior User

Joined: Dec 2001

Posts: 133

Likes: 1

From: Martinez, CA

breakaway switch

I don't know of a web site, but if you get a copy of the "Trailer Life Campground Directory" it will give you the info you're looking for, plus any other requirements for towing in each state.

Feb 4, 2003 | 09:34 PM

RichF350V10

Junior User

Joined: Dec 2001

Posts: 63

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From: US

breakaway switch

How about "should a break-away switch be installed?"

There is a good reason why many "modern" trailers have a break-away switch and battery. If the trailer disconnects then the trailer brakes are applied and show the run-away trailer down.

I think this is a good thing.

RichF350V10

Feb 5, 2003 | 10:56 AM

GAV10

Senior User

Joined: Oct 2002

Posts: 437

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From: Fayetteville (Atlanta) GA

breakaway switch

I know in GA, AL, FL, and TN a breakaway switch is only required when the gross trailer weight rating exceeds 3000 lbs. I had a 6x12, single axle, utility trailer rated at 3000 lbs that did not have one. When I upgraded to a 6000 lb, dual axle, trailer a breakaway switch was required.

ON EDIT: Called the guy who sold me my last trailer. He said " In GA 3000 lbs and over are required to have electric brakes. 3500 lbs and over are required to have a breakaway switch."

GAV10 Mark

Last edited by GAV10; Feb 5, 2003 at 11:17 AM.