Home› Trailer & Towing

Moving Breakaway Switch Box

HoBoHoBo Member Posts: 45
in Trailer & Towing
Has anyone ever moved the switch box from which the breakaway cable pulls from? Recently purchased a TADA and want to put a bike rack on the frame. Only location is between existing propane tub and an installed utility box. Unfortunately the switch box is on the underside of the frame in the same location. Seems like a ‘simple’ fix but curious if I’m opening Pandora’s Box? 
HB 2009 DM T@D@ being towed by 2021 Subaru Ascent Asheville, NC/Clayton, GA
· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter Share on Google+

Comments

  • Dutch061Dutch061 Member Posts: 765
    There is no reason you can't move it, obviously making sure that you use "best practices" if you have to extend the wiring. As long as is is mounted in a similar fashion (IE cable forward) you will be fine. 

    Brad
    2020 400 BDL aka "Boonie"
    2022 Black Series HQ19 aka "Cricket"
    2021 F-250 Tremor with PSD aka "Big Blue"
    Concord, NC 
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter Share on Google+
  • HoBoHoBo Member Posts: 45
    Thanks! Any insight on tricks to drilling the trailer frame?
    HB 2009 DM T@D@ being towed by 2021 Subaru Ascent Asheville, NC/Clayton, GA
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter Share on Google+
  • Dutch061Dutch061 Member Posts: 765
    I don't believe that you will have any issues if you use a sharp bit, it is not hardened steel. 

    Brad
    2020 400 BDL aka "Boonie"
    2022 Black Series HQ19 aka "Cricket"
    2021 F-250 Tremor with PSD aka "Big Blue"
    Concord, NC 
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter Share on Google+
  • tabiphiletabiphile Member Posts: 441
    Use machinist HS bits when you drill the frame. Before you start make sure you know if the box is mounted with clearance or tapped holes. If they are tapped then figure out the thread you are dealing with and the get the proper drill to match up to the particular tap you are using. From memory, a 21 drill is the one for 10-32, 7 is for 1/4-20...that sort of thing. If you end up tapping, use a tap lube and go slowly. 
    If those are clearance holes just blast away but use a smaller size drill first and then follow with the final bit. 
    Make sure that wherever you mount the box that the pull on the cable is straight or close to it. 
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter Share on Google+
  • HoBoHoBo Member Posts: 45
    All good info! Thank you!
    HB 2009 DM T@D@ being towed by 2021 Subaru Ascent Asheville, NC/Clayton, GA
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter Share on Google+
  • AnOldURAnOldUR Member Posts: 1,379
    tabiphile said:
    ... If you end up tapping  ...
    I would not recommend tapping the frame or using a self tapping screw. The frame wall thickness is too thin to have more that a thread or two of engagement. Go with the smallest size drill that will allow your bolt to pass through and use a washer and nyloc nut.
    Stockton, New Jersey
    2020 nuCamp T@B 320S * Jeep Wrangler

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter Share on Google+
Sign In or Register to comment.