Will Trailer Brakes Lock When Backing Up Trailer w/ Demco Hydraulic Trailer Brake Actuator # DM72VR

Updated 06/26/2015 | Published 06/25/2015

Question:

Because it can be expected that all trailers will need to backed up from time to time, I am confused why anyone would want a braking system in which this can be a problem. I am interested in the DM72VR, and I have read your answers to other questions that seem to say that backing up slowly will not lock up the brakes. Is that the case?

asked by: Chuck F

Expert Reply:

I can understand how this can be a bit confusing. Brake actuators, like the Demco Hydraulic Trailer Brake Actuator, # DM72VR, with no lock-out are typically more economical and are perfect for trailers equipped with free-backing brakes because the lock-out is not needed.

As for whether or not you can back up slowly without locking up the brakes is going to depend on the weight of your trailer and whether you are on level ground. A very heavy trailer is going to engage the brakes much sooner as will backing up an incline.

expert reply by: Leah S