Parts Needed to Backup Without Putting on the Surge Brakes When Parking or Launching a Boat Trailer

Updated 07/11/2012 | Published 07/09/2012

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Zinc-Plated Brake Actuator - Drum - Multi-Fit Ball - Bolt On - 7,000 lbs

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Adapter 4-Pole to 5-Pole Trailer Wiring Adapter - Shorter

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Hopkins Endurance 5-Way Flat Trailer Wiring Kit - Vehicle and Trailer Ends - Ergonomic Design

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Hopkins Endurance 5-Way Flat Trailer Connector - Vehicle End - Ergonomic Design

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Hopkins Endurance 5-Way Flat Trailer Connector - Trailer End - Ergonomic Design

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Replacement Solenoid Valve for Dexter Brake Actuators with Reverse Lockouts

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Solenoid Shield for Dexter Model 60 Trailer Brake Actuators - Zinc

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Question:

Hello, I recenlty purhcased a Titan Model 60 actuator and I was wondering if there is a way to disengage the braking while reversing in for launching and parking? Thanks!

asked by: Chris

Expert Reply:

Yes, there is a way to back up your boat trailer and keep the surge brake actuator, # T43397007K, from applying pressure to the trailer brakes.

You will need an electric lockout solenoid, # T4748800, which will close when you shift the vehicle into reverse, allowing the trailer to be backed. Along with the solenoid, you will need a solenoid cover, # T4835800183, if your actuator is the model 60 actuator that you referenced. The cover will keep the solenoid from getting stepped on and damaged when installed inline between the master cylinder and the existing brake line.

You will also need to add a 5-Way trailer end wiring connector, # HM47910, on the trailer and a 5-Way vehicle end wiring connector on the vehicle. When wiring the vehicle you will match the ground, taillight, and left and right stop turn wires and wire the additional blue wire into the reverse light circuit behind one of the vehicle taillight housings. You can buy these two connectors as a kit using part # HM47890, an once installed you can still use a 4-Way flat trailer connector with the 5-Way on the vehicle.

Another option for wiring the vehicle is to use a 5-Way adapter like part # 47515 which will allow you to leave the 4-Way wiring connector on your vehicle and add the reverse light circuit to the adapter when towing the boat.