Question:
I bought a new breakaway system that is rated for up to 2 axles with brakes. It has a 5 amp/hr battery. My trailer is a triple axle. I started looking at systems rated for triple axles and they have the same battery. What’s the difference?
asked by: Andy
Expert Reply:
It honestly just boils down to what the manufacturer has tested and approved for each battery. For example, the Tekonsha Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit # 50-85-313 is rated for up to 3 axles while the Hopkins Engager Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit # 20099 is only rated for up to 2 axles.
Breakaway kits are designed to stop your trailer in a worst-case scenario. Since this is something that is used for emergencies only I highly recommend swapping out your current system with one that is rated for 3 axles. For some reason that manufacturer decided that the limit for their specific kit is 2 axles whether they don't to be held liable or there actually is a safety issue. It is always best to be safe rather than sorry.
Hopkins Engager Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit w/ Built-In Charger - Side Load - 7" Wire
Tekonsha Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit with Built-In Battery Charger - Top Load
