Can Surge Brake Actuator be Locked to Convert to Electric Over Hydraulic Brakes

Updated 04/29/2020 | Published 04/28/2020

Question:

I recently purchased a Hydrastar electric over hydraulic brake kit disc brakes from you guys and now getting ready to install. However, I may have overlooked the details regarding how to handle the current surge coupler, i.e. once the hydraulics are moved over the coupler will no longer work properly because it has play slides and needs to be solid right? The DM12717 has a similar bolt pattern 3inch oc for first two bolts of my current surge coupler for my EZ loader trailer and the specs are more than adequate, however a couple of the holes do not line up. My questions: 1. Is there a way to use the existing surge coupler i.e. re-purpose? 2. If I replace with the DM12717 is it ok to drill a few new holes in the 3 x 5 channel to get all 4 bolts installed i.e. will new holes compromise structural integrity?

asked by: Steve

Helpful Expert Reply:

You can lock out your surge brake actuator although it's not always the prettiest of solutions. You need to either weld the pieces together or drill holes through it putting in bolts to keep it from moving. It'll work but it completely destroys the actuator from ever being functional again.

On the other hand drilling holes into the Demco coupler, part # DM12717, is a better option. Drilling isn't ideal but once you put bolts through it you'll keep its integrity intact.

expert reply by: Charles S