RE: [A/S] trailer brakes Power source

["Oliver Filippi" <ofilippi@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Robert,

The trailer brakes DO get their power from the tow vehicle.

However, if the break a way switch is closed (ie the trailer gets
disconnected from the tow vehicle - and umbilical cord) the power in the
trailer's battery is used to fully energize the trailer brakes.

Bottom line, when you are towing, you want the trailer battery to be active,
not only for the break a way safety issue, but also for the trailer
battery(s) to get charged from the tow vehicle's alternator via the charge
line from the tow vehicle via the umbilical cable.

Oliver Filippi


I have been following the the threads regarding brakes.  Guess I am
confused, it was stated that the trailer brakes don't work if the disconnect
switch inside the trailer is in the store position?

  Seems like the last thing I do is turn that switch off when I am storing
it, because I usually have the refrigerator going while I am driving.

  Guess I thought the brakes got their power from the truck as they are
connected throught the pig tail.