What is the Best Disc Brake Actuator for a Four Winns Horizon 190 Boat Trailer

Updated 08/31/2020 | Published 05/03/2018

Question:

Hi, I have a Horizon 190 boat trailer. I need a new coupler for the trailer. It has the actuator for disc brakes. What part number would I need? the coupler I have now is a square release.

asked by: Dave

Expert Reply:

If you are wanting to replace the entire surge brake actuator on your Four Winns Horizon 190 boat trailer then I have exactly what you will need. I recommend using the Dexter Disc Brake Actuator part # 099-175-20. This actuator works with 2" hitch balls. It has a 7,500 lb weight capacity, fits a 3" wide channel, and includes a electric lockout feature so you will not have any issues backing the trailer up. The actuator also offers a completely bolt-on installation.

The Titan brake actuators are very popular in the boating industry. The zinc plating works well to resist rust/corrosion and the made in U.S.A. origin paired with the 1 year warranty gives consumers the peace of mind that they are getting a quality, well made product. I have attached a review video of this actuator for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L

Louis P.

4/30/2020

I own a 2005 Four Winns Single Axle Trailer with hydraulic brakes. I need to replace the actuator/master cylinder. Please advise on which replacement part is available and cost. Thank you.

Chris R.

5/1/2020

I can definitely recommend a good replacement actuator, but I'm wondering if you can tell me what model or type is currently on the trailer. Unfortunately I'm not able to track down info on your trailer based on the boat model. Hopefully there is something printed on the actuator itself that indicates its brand and capacity.

Bob

8/21/2020

@ChrisR Would a bad actuator (or component part) cause the trailer brake lights to be inoperable? Attempted to haul today but could not get the trailer lights to function. Obviously it could be a wiring problem but reading all of these posts peaked my curiosity about the actuator. It's 20 years old and has been sitting in a storage yard for 3 months. The release handle/lever did not want to move up into the unlock/open position easily or very far but did allow the coupler to rest on the ball and the lever did easily go back to the closed position. There were no moving parts under the lever like a trigger, or at least any that moved. Took a pic of what was etched into the coupler but the suns glare makes it impossible to read so unfortunately I don't know the manufacturer. Bought a new coupling so the trailers 5-post wiring harness would connect to my trucks stock 7-post trailer wiring connection. Or could the breakaway cable cause the lights to not function? Didn't have it at the time but the boat manual online says "Make sure breakaway cable is in released position with indicator bead touching or resting against cable spring stop." My breakaway cable is attached to what looks like a lever that comes out of the top of the coupling/actuator. Not sure of its supposed to move at all but it does not. I am new to this and a friend offered me their boat/trailer and need to get it hauled to an expert for inspection. Working trailer lights is the 1st step for me and I didn't have any luck today.

Jon G.

8/31/2020

A hydraulic actuator isn't connected to your trailer brake lights so you'll want to troubleshoot your lights separately from replacing your trailer coupler. Check your wiring and your connections, including your ground connections, to make sure everything is clean and secured. Here is a link to our wiring troubleshooting FAQ that you can check out.

Helpful Links

faq-4-5-way-troubleshooting.aspx

Lou P.

5/1/2020

TDE LP7000 GVW 7500 Is what is stamped on the actuator.

Chris R.

5/4/2020

Thanks so much for the info. This is a Tie Down Marine actuator, and while we don't have any replacement parts available for it (such as the master cylinder) we do have new actuators that will work well in its place. For drum brakes I recommend the Titan # T4500600 or for disc brakes you can go with the Dexter # 099-175-20. Both feature the same 7,500 pound capacity as your existing unit and are compatible with 2" hitch balls.

Lou P.

5/22/2020

I Just want to confirm that we understand each other. You are recommending the DX7.5 Brake Actuator. Please describe the electric lockout. What is it for?

Chris R.

5/25/2020

You are correct. The electric lockout will prevent your brake assemblies from engaging when going in reverse.