The Bright Way Group Breakaway Kit is an essential component for safe towing of trailers. The kit is designed to activate the trailer brakes in case of a separation between the trailer and the tow vehicle. The breakaway kit consists of a battery, charger, switch, and wiring. In this article, we will discuss the wiring diagram for the Bright Way Group Breakaway Kit.
What is a Breakaway Kit?
A breakaway kit is a safety device installed in a trailer that activates the trailer brakes in case the trailer gets disconnected from the tow vehicle during towing. The breakaway kit consists of a battery, charger, switch, and wiring. The battery provides power to the trailer brakes in case of a separation, and the charger keeps the battery charged. The switch activates the trailer brakes when the kit is deployed.
Why is a Breakaway Kit Necessary?
A breakaway kit is necessary to ensure the safety of the trailer, tow vehicle, and other motorists on the road. In case of a separation between the trailer and the tow vehicle, the trailer can become a dangerous projectile on the road, causing accidents and injuries. The breakaway kit ensures that the trailer comes to a safe stop in case of a separation, preventing accidents and injuries.
Moreover, in most states, it is required by law to have a breakaway kit installed in trailers that weigh more than a certain limit. Failing to comply with this law can result in fines and penalties.
Wiring Diagram for Bright Way Group Breakaway Kit
The Bright Way Group Breakaway Kit comes with a wiring diagram that must be followed during installation. The wiring diagram is as follows:
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Black | Battery negative (-) |
| Red | Battery positive (+) |
| Blue | Brake output |
| White | Ground (-) |
Before proceeding with the installation, make sure that you have all the required tools and equipment. The tools required for the installation include wire strippers, crimping tool, screwdriver, and pliers. The equipment required includes the breakaway kit, battery, charger, and wiring harness.
Step 1: Mounting the Breakaway Kit
The breakaway kit must be mounted in a location that is easily accessible and secure. The kit should be mounted on the tongue of the trailer, close to the hitch coupler. Make sure that the mounting location does not interfere with the operation of the trailer or the tow vehicle.
Step 2: Wiring the Breakaway Kit
The wiring harness provided with the breakaway kit must be connected to the corresponding wires on the trailer. The wiring diagram provided with the kit must be followed during the installation. The black wire on the harness must be connected to the battery negative (-) on the trailer. The red wire on the harness must be connected to the battery positive (+) on the trailer. The blue wire on the harness must be connected to the brake output on the trailer. The white wire on the harness must be connected to the ground (-) on the trailer.
Step 3: Installing the Battery and Charger
The battery and charger provided with the breakaway kit must be installed in a secure and accessible location. The battery must be connected to the black and red wires on the harness. The charger must be connected to an external power source, such as the tow vehicle’s battery.
Step 4: Testing the Breakaway Kit
Once the installation is complete, the breakaway kit must be tested to ensure that it is working properly. To test the kit, pull the pin out of the switch and check if the trailer brakes are activated. If the brakes are activated, the kit is working properly.
FAQs
Q. Can a breakaway kit be installed on any trailer?
A. A breakaway kit can be installed on most trailers. However, it is required by law to have a breakaway kit installed in trailers that weigh more than a certain limit. Check your state’s laws to determine if your trailer requires a breakaway kit.
Q. Can a breakaway kit be installed by a non-professional?
A. Yes, a breakaway kit can be installed by a non-professional. However, it is recommended to have the installation done by a professional to ensure that it is done correctly and safely.
Q. How often should a breakaway kit be inspected?
A. A breakaway kit should be inspected before every trip to ensure that it is working properly. The battery should be charged, the switch should be free from debris, and the wiring should be intact.
Q. What should I do if the breakaway kit is activated during towing?
A. If the breakaway kit is activated during towing, stop the vehicle and reconnect the trailer to the tow vehicle. Check the trailer and the kit for any damage. Reset the kit and test it before resuming towing.
Q. How long does the battery in a breakaway kit last?
A. The battery in a breakaway kit can last up to five years if maintained and charged properly. However, it is recommended to replace the battery every two to three years to ensure that it is functioning properly.
Conclusion
The Bright Way Group Breakaway Kit is an essential component for safe towing of trailers. The wiring diagram provided with the kit must be followed during installation to ensure that it is done correctly. The breakaway kit must be inspected before every trip to ensure that it is working properly. The kit should be tested if it is activated during towing. By following these guidelines, you can ensure the safety of yourself, your trailer, and other motorists on the road.
