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Question

Difficulty: EasyTowing Trailers and Caravans

When coupling a trailer fitted with brakes to your car, you must securely attach the breakaway cable to the towing vehicle. What is the primary purpose of this safety cable?

  1. A
    To prevent the trailer from skidding or aquaplaning during sudden emergency braking
  2. To automatically apply the trailer's brakes if it becomes detached from the carAnswer
  3. C
    To keep the total stopping distance identical to that of an unladen vehicle
  4. D
    To monitor and automatically adjust the trailer tyre pressures under heavy loads

Answer

To automatically apply the trailer's brakes if it becomes detached from the car
A breakaway cable is an essential secondary safety connection on braked trailers and caravans. If the main tow hitch separates from the towball while moving, the cable pulls the trailer handbrake lever to stop the trailer safely before snapping away.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the standard safety equipment fitted to braked trailers and caravans.
A breakaway cable is connected between the towing vehicle chassis/towbar and the trailer parking brake mechanism.
Trailers with an overrun braking system require a fail-safe device to protect other road users.
2
Determine the mechanical function of the cable in the event of an accidental detachment.
If the trailer separates from the towball, the cable tightens, activates the trailer handbrake, and then snaps, bringing the runaway trailer to a halt.
This prevents an unguided, free-rolling trailer from continuing down the road.

Key Concept

Breakaway cable purpose and trailer safety coupling
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Towing Trailers and Caravans

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