Breakaway Switch - Jayco 2004 Talon ZX Owner's Manual

From the battery, power is sent to the controller to provide the correct amount of current to brake the
sport utility trailer. Use the tow vehicle's brake pedal control for general operation on combined use
of both brake systems. The controller's manual control is to be used only in special situations such as
indicated in the instructions supplied with control. In the open position, the manual control breaks
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 camper 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 sport utility 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. 3-8) 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 vehicle, 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, brakes and breakaway switch.
+ FROM BRAKE CONTROLLER
GROUND TO
AUTO METAL
24
LANYARD FASTENED TO
AUTO BUMPER FRAME
POSITIVE
BRAKE + LINE
BRAKE GROUND -
NEGATIVE
Fig. 3-8 - Breakaway Switch Schematics
TRAILER
BATTERY
SPLICE TO BRAKE
+ LINE
SPLICE TO
BRAKE GROUND
Talon Owner's Manual
TO TRAILER
BRAKES