Replacement for Atwood 6,000 lb Hydraulic Actuating Coupler for Drum Brakes

Updated 03/23/2026 | Published 10/22/2019

Question:

Thanks for your help in the past. Great service and quick delivery. After replacing the trailer hub brakes, we realized the master cylinder is shot. And from what I can tell online, atwood 85736 has no replacement anymore. Is there any other easy way to make this work? If not, I don't mind replacing the whole tongue assembly. If there is a bolt on version for this, that would be great. If not, I can have it welded on. Can you point me in the right direction? based on attached images.

asked by: James M

Expert Reply:

Thanks for the kind words, happy we were able to help, and the photos are also appreciated!

As for the actuator, you are correct that the Atwood 85736 master cylinder is no longer available because Atwood was bought out so your best option is going to be a replacement actuator.

I recommend the Demco Hydraulic Trailer Brake Actuator - Drum Brakes # DM72VR which, like your Atwood, has a 7,000 lb capacity and accepts a 2" hitch ball. This is a bolt-on actuator as well so you aren't going to have to weld it on, with the bolt holes being 3" apart on center and requiring 1/2" x 4-1/2" Grade 5 bolts.

I have added a link to a video install of this actuator for you to check out as well that you can use as a reference.

expert reply by: Kyle S

click to enlarge

Doug

3/21/2026

Will this also work for one thats welded on . I have same as pictures show just welded

Robin H.

3/21/2026

@Doug as long as it is a 3" straight tongue you can use the # DM72VR once you cut off the old actuator.

Doug

3/21/2026

@RobinH Thanks I have not decided what way to go . I will be buying this but just wonder in the long run if it wouldn't just be easier to buy a new 3 x 3 x5 ft square 3 /16 tube and just start with new versus cutting

Doug

3/21/2026

@Doug Does this controller have means of locking it out for backing up with a pin without installing a solenoid