the electrical current preventing brake engagement. When in the closed position, electrical current
will flow to brake assemblies.
Wiring to operate your brakes must be sized in both vehicles, suggesting a minimum of 14 gauge.
Your trailer has 14 gauge wire from front end to brakes.
Brake assemblies are wired in parallel, never in a series. Being parallel, there will be equal voltage
and amperage at each brake assembly for equal braking capability and/or performance.
When your park trailer is new it is impossible to adjust your brake shoe precisely. It takes
approximately 1,000 miles and/or 50 medium to heavy stops to "burnish" fit or seat the shoes to
drum. After this initial break-in, you can now adjust your shoes accurately for best performance and
increased durability.
Breakaway Switch
The breakaway switch (Fig. 8-4) is one of the most important parts of your trailer electric brake
system. The very instant a breakaway occurs, the pull pin which is linked to the tow car, is pulled
from the switch. The two contacts automatically close to complete the electrical circuit and apply the
trailer brakes. This system will apply the brakes of the trailer should it break away from the tow
vehicle. A 12-volt battery is required to power the breakaway switch.
I
WARNING: NEVER use the breakaway switch and trailer brake system as a parking
brake. Usage in this way would place undo strain on the battery and converter,
potentially causing damage to the wiring, connectors, and breakaway switch.
Breakaway Switch Schematics
112
Cove Owner’s Manual
LANYARD FASTENED TO
AUTO BUMPER FRAME
+ LINE
TRAILER
BATTERY
SPLICE TO BRAKE
SPLICE TO
BRAKE GROUND
POSITIVE
BRAKE + LINE
BRAKE GROUND -
NEGATIVE
GROUND TO
AUTO METAL
+ FROM BRAKE CONTROLLER
TO TRAILER
BRAKES
+ LINE
Fig. 8-4