How to Prevent Hydraulic Surge Coupler From Activating Trailer Brakes

Updated 03/08/2017 | Published 03/07/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Zinc-Plated, Adjustable-Channel Brake Actuator - Drum - Lunette Ring - Bolt On - 12,500 lbs

(1)

$619.69

Replacement Solenoid Valve for Dexter Brake Actuators with Reverse Lockouts

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$74.32

Dexter Brake Actuator with Manual Lockout - Bolt On - Drum - 2" Ball - 7,500 lbs

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$404.73

Question:

How can we prevent a fully loaded trailer from braking when the tow truck moving downhill or when maneuvering backwards?

asked by: Rolando L

Expert Reply:

Trailers can be equipped with a surge coupler that has a reverse lockout feature to disengage hydraulic brakes to allow backing up. This reverse lockout feature can be electric, as on actuator coupler adding # T4748800, or it can be manual as on part # T63FR. Either way the reverse lockout prevents the surge coupler from sending hydraulic fluid to the brakes, which allows the trailer to be backed up without the brakes engaging. The coupler you referenced # T4809800 has no lockout.

Another option is free-backing brake assemblies which you can see on the linked page. These hydraulic drum brakes won't engage in reverse, even if your actuator is activated.

expert reply by: Adam R