Troubleshooting Surge Brake Actuator that Won't Release Brakes

Updated 03/21/2019 | Published 03/20/2019

Question:

I had someone move my boat and they didnt plug in the trailer power so the trailer locked up when he backed it up. The problem is that now I cant get it to lock back in so the hitch wont slide back and lock up the breaks. How do I get the hitch to lock back into place?

asked by: Jeff K

Expert Reply:

Sounds like your trailer has an electric reverse lockout which prevents the brakes of your trailer from applying so that you can back the trailer up. If now the brakes won't release after the issue you had with someone else backing up the trailer that sounds like a mechanical problem. Possible something has bent inside the surge actuator which won't allow the inner piece to slide forward and release the brake pressure.

You should inspect the coupler looking for any damaged or bent components and get back to me with what you find.

expert reply by: Jameson C