Recommendation to Replace Atwood 83010 Brake Actuator

Question:

atwood 83010 brake actuator im replacing the brake actuator on a utility trailer and the old atwood one is no longer available. what can i use to replace the old one with that will mate up properly.

asked by: Taylor G

Expert Reply:

Your existing Atwood model 83010 Brake Actuator (which as you mentioned is no longer available) is an 8,000 pound rated assembly for hydraulic drum brakes that's compatible with a 2" ball. It's designed to fit 3" wide straight trailer tongues.

In terms of specs the closest option we have available for replacement is the Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator # DM8669112. This actuator features an 8,000 pound towing capacity, works with 2 inch hitch balls, fits 3" wide trailer tongues, and is a bolt-on application. To add the manual lockout you would need the Kit # DM5939.

This particular model does have a 4" drop on the coupler. I have included a short video review that you can check out as well.

As you likely noticed this model looks quite a bit different than your Atwood unit. If you want something a bit closer in design/style to what you currently have then you will need to drop down in capacity. For example the Dexter DX7.5 Drop-N-Go Brake Actuator # 099-175-00 looks a bit closer to your Atwood actuator but it has a 7,500 pound capacity. If your loaded trailer will stay under this limit then it can still be used. Because this model does not include a reverse lockout, it is recommended that you equip your trailer with free-backing brakes so that you can drive in reverse without triggering your trailer's brakes.

This coupler still matches all the other specs on your current actuator, including compatibility with a 2" hitch ball and a bolt-on application to a 3" wide tongue.