Bear25314 writes "I didn't have the batteries on the trailer. "
:E:M
Umm... You do realize that you MUST have fully charged batteries CONNECTED to your trailer ANY TIME you venture out on public roads?
The reason for this is the trailer battery(ies) are SUPPOSED TO PROVIDE POWER FOR THE BREAK AWAY SYSTEM.
By not having a charged battery attached to the trailers electrical system your break away system will FAIL to operate once the trailer to TV cable disconnects if for any reason your trailer fully breaks away from the TV.
This IS a Federal requirement and IS enforced by all states (yeah I know, TEXAS doesn't obey any Fed laws :R :h).
It is not only a safety item for your sake but also ALL of the motorists on the public roads.
Years ago near Pittsburgh PA an entire FAMILY including kids was KILLED after an 3,000 lb chipper broke away from the truck (chipper was improperly secured and was not required to have brakes). The chipper DEMOLISHED the van the family was riding in, imagine what would happen with YOUR trailer rolling away out of control. Why take the chance?
The break away system is required to not only STOP the trailer from rolling but alos HOLD the trailer in place for a minimum of 10 minutes.
It is there for everyones safety, USE IT.
Not only use it, CHECK IT EVERY TIME YOU HOOK UP to tow.
When hooked up, simply pull the plunger, then try pulling forward, the brakes MUST lock and you will slide all tires.
If the brakes fail to activate DO NOT TOW UNTIL YOU HAVE LOCATED AND REPAIRED THE PROBLEM.
