Professional breakaway cable for commercial or occasional use. Trailer / caravan breakaway cable. ...Professional breakaway cable for commercial or occasional use. Trailer / caravan breakaway cable. This listing is for 5 x breakaway cables. Heavy duty breakaway cable for caravans, trailers, horse boxes etc... Designed to activate the brakes on your trailer / caravan in the event of it decoupling. This is a legal requirement on all trailers with a brake system. Designed to pull the brake on the trailer on and then snap in the event of the trailer coming detached from the vehicle. It is recommended to always carry a spare as if you break one then the caravan or trailer should not be on the road till its replaced. On one end of the cable is a ring end to attach to the trailer (on the bottom of the handbrake). On the other end is a hook end to be attached to the towing vehicle. Suitable for use with all trailers up to 3.5 ton (capacity). Manufactured from 3-4 mm multi strand steel wire. PVC red protective sheathing on the outside. SPECIFICATIONS: Trailer Breakaway Cable. Suitable for braked trailers. Overall length – 1055mm. Breaking load – 5000N. Snap hook end – 80mm x 7.5mm. Ring end – 35mm x 5mm. PVC coated wire. Colour – Red. Pack size – 5 x breakaway cables.
This guide is for owners of trailers, caravans, and horse boxes with braking systems. The AB Tools Breakaway Towing Cable pack provides a crucial safety feature, ensuring your trailer's brakes activate if it detaches from the towing vehicle, preventing uncontrolled descents. A key caveat is that these are a consumable item and should be checked regularly and replaced if damaged. This product includes five heavy-duty breakaway cables designed to meet legal requirements for braked trailers up to 3.5 tons.
All features
Model Part Number
AV373_5PK
Brand
AB Tools
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is a breakaway cable for?
A breakaway cable is a safety device for braked trailers. If the trailer becomes detached from the towing vehicle, the cable activates the trailer's brakes, bringing it to a stop.
Is this cable a legal requirement?
Yes, it is a legal requirement on all trailers equipped with a braking system in many regions to ensure safety in case of detachment.
How often should I inspect the breakaway cable?
It is recommended to inspect the cable before every journey and periodically during long trips for any signs of wear or damage.
Can I use this cable on a trailer without brakes?
No, this breakaway cable is specifically designed for use on trailers that have a braking system.
What is the length of the cable?
The overall length of the breakaway cable is 1055mm.
What is the breaking load of the cable?
The cable has a specified breaking load of 5000N.
Why is it recommended to carry a spare?
If a breakaway cable snaps during an incident, the trailer must not be used on the road until the cable is replaced. Carrying a spare ensures you can continue your journey safely and legally.
Troubleshooting
Cable appears too long or too short
Ensure the cable is routed correctly and attached to appropriate points on both the vehicle and trailer. The standard length is designed for most applications; significant deviations may require re-evaluation of attachment points.
Snap hook or ring end is difficult to attach
Ensure the attachment points are clear of debris. The snap hook measures 7.5mm wide, and the ring is 5mm thick; confirm compatibility with your vehicle and trailer fittings.
PVC sheathing is cracked or peeling
This indicates wear and potential compromise of the steel cable. The cable should be replaced immediately as per safety guidelines.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Meets legal requirements for braked trailers.
Durable construction with steel wire and PVC coating.
Includes multiple cables for spares.
Suitable for a wide range of trailers up to 3.5 tons.
Simple hook and ring attachment system.
Cons
Breakaway cables are a safety-critical consumable and require regular inspection.
Must be replaced if damaged or worn.
Designed for braked trailers only.
Not a substitute for proper trailer hitching procedures.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
Attach the ring end of the cable to the designated point on the trailer's handbrake mechanism (typically a small pin or hole at the bottom).
Securely attach the snap hook end to a dedicated breakaway cable attachment point on the towing vehicle's chassis. Ensure this point is robust and not part of the towing hitch itself.
Ensure the cable has a slight slack when the trailer is connected normally, allowing it to reach the trailer's brake mechanism fully if it detaches.
Compatibility:
Suitable for all braked trailers, caravans, and horse boxes with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of up to 3.5 tons.
Features a universal snap hook and ring end for broad compatibility.
Care:
Inspection: Regularly inspect the cable for any signs of wear, fraying, cuts, corrosion, or damage to the PVC sheathing or the metal components.
Cleaning: Clean the cable with a damp cloth if it becomes dirty. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
Replacement: Replace the cable immediately if any damage is found or if it has been activated (snapped).
Storage: Store in a clean, dry place when not in use.