Based on experience, if the trailer tongue/drawbar snaps where it enters the trailer (stress concentration), the brake actuator rod does a fine job of keeping the trailer behind the tow vehicle, although the trailer swings pretty wildly back and forth.

If the front mounting point of the tongue fails, the rear mounting mount can remain attached but the front of the trailer settles onto, yes, the brake actuator rod. In this case, everything looks normal (except the trailer is riding a bit tail high) until the smoke starts pouring off the wheels from the brakes being full on.

All of this assumes the coupler is still attached to the ball, of course. A break or disconnect at that point (or if the trailer hitch itself fails--I have some experience with that, too) makes you glad you used chains.

Chip Bearden
ASW 24 "JB"