Breakaway Switch?

[dmc94572]

i found (see photo) this electrically attached device while performing rust abatement on my 2014 just purchased Escape 19. does it have a purpose?

[rubicon327]

It is your breakaway switch designed to fully actuate the brakes in the unlikely event you have a complete disconnection of the trailer from the tow vehicle when underway. It is wired to the onboard electrical system using 12V from the trailer battery. It should have a pin attached to a lanyard/cable that gets connected to your vehicle when you hitch up. If it doesn’t have the pin it has probably been disconnected. Ideally this is tested before towing by pulling the pin with your 7-pin umbilical disconnected. Then you pull forward and confirm brakes are engaged.

[escape artist]

Originally Posted by dmc94572

i found (see photo) this electrically attached device while performing rust abatement on my 2014 just purchased Escape 19. does it have a purpose?

Hi: dmc94572... "Them's the brakes"!!! My first encounter with that was... Oh? The trailer won't move. What is this pin laying in the truck box? Alf
escape artist N.S. of Lake Erie

[dmc94572]

Thank you. Sounds prudent to not only keep it but to test it next opportunity.

[cpaharley2008]

Did you receive any manuals with your used Escape? Perhaps the factory can send you some present ones for a start?

[dmc94572]

yeah I did receive booklets but nothing re this. there is a wire attached to it that now I know is the "breakaway" part. There are many important items affixed to the tongue I am cleaning, etc so they work correctly and are refreshed. thank you!

[jediwhale]

Originally Posted by cpaharley2008

Did you receive any manuals with your used Escape? Perhaps the factory can send you some present ones for a start?

Manual available here https://escapetrailer.com/wp-content...manual-WEB.pdf