Surge Brake Actuating Coupler With Reverse Lockout Boat Launching

Updated 09/18/2017 | Published 09/17/2017

Question:

Ive installed the Titan surge brake actuator on my boat trailer. My question is should I disconnect the wiring harness when launching the boat into water? Some say yes, to protect the wiring and bulbs from water exposure, but others tell me no, because the solenoid override will not work when disconnected and the trailer brakes will activate when backing up. Still others tell me that the brakes will only activate without the harness connected when backing on an incline and that backing down a decline like a boat launch will be fine without the wiring connected? Any advice?

asked by: Mike Z

Expert Reply:

With your Titan surge brake actuating coupler with electric lockout # T4748800, I recommend unplugging the wiring before launch. The issue with most is how long before launch does it need to be unplugged. Obviously there is some maneuvering prior to launch that it is helpful to have brakes deactivated for so I recommend disconnecting the wiring just before you put the trailer axle into the water. This will keep all of your electrical safe from any water and electricity issues and will allow you use of your free backing until that point. With the angle of the decline on the boat launching ramp, you won't have an issue with the trailer brakes unless you are hitting the gas in reverse pretty hard and that isn't wise. When backing in slowly your brakes shouldn't be activated because the weight of the trailer should be pulling on the ball not pushing on it to activate the brakes.

Does this take an extra few seconds to disconnect prior to launch and reconnect when your are exiting the water again...yes. Is it worth that to protect your system, I think so. Better safe than sorry.

expert reply by: Jason S