Comparing Uni-Servo and Free Backing Hydraulic Drum Trailer Brakes
Updated 08/05/2010 | Published 08/03/2010
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Hello, I have a four winns single axle boat trailer with Dico/ Titan model 60 coupler, which does not have a reverse lockout. I am going to replace the brake assemblies due to neglect from previous owner along with the hubs/drums. The current arrangement is standard uni-servo without free backing. The brakes currently do not function and I can back up my drive which has an incline without issue. IF I stay with the same style of brakes and no reverse lockout on the actuator, will this be an issue once the brakes are functional ? Should I change to the free backing style ? What are the pros and cons other than the safety cable, if actuated will not work with the trailer going in the reverse direction? Thank you
asked by: Greg
Expert Reply:
If you replace the current brakes on your trailer with the same uni-servo drum brakes and no lockout actuator (like # T2351000), the brakes will deliver 20 percent braking when traveling in reverse. However, the more pressure you apply going backwards against the coupler, the more the brakes will engage so backing up the driveway will prove difficult.
The Titan Free-Backing Hydraulic Trailer Brake Assembly, # T4489600, will allow you to brake in reverse using a coupler with no lockout feature. When you back up, the brake shoes will be tight against the drum, as if you were braking. But as you keep going in reverse, the shoes will turn with the drum until the lining pressure will be released. You will then be able to back up freely.
Apart from a breakaway kit not being effective if the trailer disconnects from the tow vehicle when backing up, there is one other thing to consider. If you were backing up down hill and the brake lining pressure released to allow free backing, you would have to rely on the vehicle brakes. This would put more strain on the tow vehicle brakes.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Galphorite Free-Backing Hydraulic Trailer Brake Assembly - 12" - Left Hand
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brakes
- Hydraulic Drum Brakes
- LH
- 6000 lbs
- Brake Assembly
- Free Backing
- 12 x 2 Inch Drum
- Dexter
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