Where does the power for the trailer brakes come from when the brake-away switch is activated?

When the brake-away switch is activated, the power for the trailer brakes comes from the coach battery. The brake-away switch is a safety feature in trailers designed to engage the brakes in the event that the trailer becomes detached from the towing vehicle. When this switch is activated, it completes a circuit that draws power from the coach battery, which is specifically designed to provide a reliable power source for such emergency situations.

The coach battery typically powers several systems in the trailer, including lights and brakes, making it a suitable source of energy when an emergency arises. In scenarios where the trailer is disconnected, utilizing the coach battery ensures that the brakes can be engaged effectively to prevent the trailer from rolling away, thus enhancing safety.

Other sources such as a generator battery, vehicle alternator, or auxiliary battery may have specific functions but are not typically the source of power for the trailer brakes when the brake-away switch is triggered. The emphasis on using the coach battery underscores its role in trailer safety systems.