Specifications

If the breakaway cable is accidentally pulled and the brakes applied, determine why it
happened and fix the problem. Inadvertent setting of the brakes by pulling the breakaway
cable is a common mistake. To prevent light pulls from accidentally setting trailer brakes
a small metal clip has been installed on breakaway cables in front of the indicator bead.
The clip will not inhibit the action of the breakaway mechanism during actual breakaway
conditions. However, if breakaway should occur, the clip will be destroyed and should be
replaced. Spare clips are available through authorized MasterCraft dealers.
To retract the breakaway cable, slide the coupler fully forward and push up on the push
rod release bracket located on the underside and behind the hitch ball socket. This allows
the bead to retract into the actuator. This releases the trailer brakes. Install a new clip on
the breakaway cable in front of the bead.
Checking and resetting the breakaway cable:
If pushing up on the bracket does not release the brakes or it is hard to push, insert a pry
bar into the 5/16” hole behind the bracket. Use the pry bar to (gently) stroke the push rod
backwards and relieve the load on the bracket. Push up on the bracket and hold it up while
releasing the pry bar.
The push rod re-
lease bracket should
now move freely and
brakes should be re-
leased.
Check to be cer-
tain the actuator is
reset. Extend the ac-
tuator fully. Remove
the cap from the top of the actuator and pull the plug from the top of the reservoir cover.
While looking at the fluid in the reservoir, manually compress the actuator. In the first 1/8”
of coupler movement the fluid in the reservoir should splash or ripple slightly. If it does, the
actuator is working properly.
Stroking the push rod to release the brakes:
If the brakes cannot be released using the method described above, or if the push rod
release bracket will not move, it is damaged beyond serviceability. Contact an authorized
MasterCraft dealer for assistance and replacement parts.
How to install the breakaway cable clip:
The breakaway cable clip is installed on the breakaway cable to prevent inadvertent pres-
surization of the trailer brakes if the cable is lightly pulled by accident. If the breakaway cable is
pulled during an emergency situation, the clip will be destroyed. The breakaway system must
be reset by pushing up on the tab located under the coupler and the clip must be replaced.
To install a new clip,
open the latch handle
and pull enough cable
out of the coupler body
to make the installa-
tion of the clip easier.
The clip must be in-
stalled on the cable
in front of the indica-
tor bead as shown in
the illustration.(NOTE:
Some couplers do not
require a clip. Verify
MasterCra Trailer Manual • Page 7