Brake cable replacement

[mgsmithnj]

I noticed last week that the brake cable that hooks to the hitch was broken. Looking at the other end of the cable (see the attached picture) the way the cable connects to the plug is really tight. I'm not sure I can just swap that cable out with a replacement one, even though Amazon lists many of them.
Has anyone else had to replace these? Can I just change the cable, the cable plus a new plug, or does the whole brake unit need replacing? It's hard to know if these plugs are universal or not.

[howson]

I noticed last week that the brake cable that hooks to the hitch was broken. Looking at the other end of the cable (see the attached picture) the way the cable connects to the plug is really tight. I'm not sure I can just swap that cable out with a replacement one, even though Amazon lists many of them.
Has anyone else had to replace these? Can I just change the cable, the cable plus a new plug, or does the whole brake unit need replacing? It's hard to know if these plugs are universal or not.

Since the unit is about four years old, my .02 is to replace the entire emergency brake component. Wiring in the new one is straight forward. Keep in mind the lines are always "hot", so disconnect the battery before doing the electrical work.

[Yoda]

I noticed last week that the brake cable that hooks to the hitch was broken. Looking at the other end of the cable (see the attached picture) the way the cable connects to the plug is really tight. I'm not sure I can just swap that cable out with a replacement one, even though Amazon lists many of them.
Has anyone else had to replace these? Can I just change the cable, the cable plus a new plug, or does the whole brake unit need replacing? It's hard to know if these plugs are universal or not.

While Howard is very correct, withe proper crimp tool you can replace the break away cable, and not touch the plug.

Now after consulting the Force...Replace it all I would... is the best solution. howson

BTW check how the cable got damage in the first place and find a better connection point so it does not happen again. There are some coiled units that look better than the stock straight break away cables.

Hope this helps

[mgsmithnj]

Thank you both. I'll take a look at the wiring this weekend and will order a full replacement if it looks easy enough to get to.

[Jlawles2]

mgsmithnj FYI I cut and replaced the cable on my first 5er with a https://www.amazon.com/Freely-Breaka...s%2C125&sr=8-1 the split ring fit perfectly in the eye of the plastic key. Also the coil tends to keep a little tension on itself so it does not drag and get damaged or hung up in the chains.