Can I Use Shims or Washers to Close the Gap Between Trailer Tongue and Demco Hydraulic Actuator
Updated 04/06/2026 | Published 09/17/2020
Question:
My tongue dimensions are 2 1/2 inch square. Is it OK to use the # DM72VR coupler with 1/4 inch shims for bolt on? Cant seem to find a coupler that fits 2 1/2 in tongue. The coupler that I want to replace has no identifying marks.
asked by: Christopher L
Helpful Expert Reply:
I checked with my tech contact over at Demco and he tells me that as long as you're able to find shims that will work, you can use the Demco # DM72VR on your trailer with 2-1/2" channel tongue. You're likely going to want to try to find washers that you can bolt through to use as the shims for this and you will want to make sure that the shims are used on both sides and of equal widths.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator - Drum - Zinc - 2" Ball - 7,000 lbs
- Brake Actuator
- Surge Brake Actuator
- Farm Trailer
- Boat Trailer
- Construction Trailer
- Travel Trailer
- Utility Trailer
- Bolt-On
- 7000 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Ball Coupler
- 3 Inch Channel Tongue
- Drum Brakes
- No Lockout
- Demco
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Continue Researching
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Shop: Curt Friction Sway Control for Weight Distribution Systems
- Video: Let’s Check Out the Dexter Bolt-On Coupler for 2 5/16" Ball
- Video: Curt Weight Distribution Systems Friction Sway Control Installation - 2011 Forest River R-Pod Travel
- Shop: Trailer Valet JXS Drill Powered Swivel Trailer Jack w/ Footplate - Sidewind - 14" Lift - 1.6K
- Shop: Dexter Bolt-On Coupler for 2 5/16" Ball - Primed - 21K
- Shop: Demco Trailer Coupler - Cast - Adjustable Channel - eZ-Latch - Black - 2-5/16" Ball - 21K
- Shop: Square Direct Weld Jack w/ Footplate - Drop Leg - Topwind - 28-3/4" Lift - 7,000 lbs
- Shop: etrailer Boat Trailer Jack w/ Footplate - Sidewind - Fixed Mount - 29-1/8" Lift - Zinc - 2.5K
- Shop: Universal MightyMounts for Yakima Roof Mounted Accessories
- Q&A: What Size Drill Bit is Used to Mount Reese Sway Control Ball Plate to a Trailer Tongue
- Video: Hands-On with the Universal MightyMounts for Yakima Roof Mounted Accessories
- Article: Trailer Drum Brakes vs. Disc Brakes: Making the Decision
- Q&A: What Should the Voltage Output Be at the 4-Way Plug on Curt T-Connector Wiring Harness # 56016
- Search Results: demco da91
- Q&A: Comparing Demco Channel Tongue Trailer Coupler 12564 and DM12717
- Q&A: How Do Hydraulic Drum Brakes Lock Up if Trailer Becomes Uncoupled From Tow Vehicle
- Q&A: Mounting Hole Spacing for Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Surge Brake Boat Trailer that Makes Slamming Sound When Hitting Bumps
- Q&A: Surge Brake Actuator Compatibility with Free Backing Brakes and Longer Dimensions
- Video: Feature Breakdown: Slide Repair Kit for Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuators
Hoss F.
4/6/2026
Hello, I have a similar situation.I am trying to find shims to install inside my coupler actuator. As my coupler actuates back-and-forth, my shims have worn down. My current setup includes the circle.Shams, two on each side wall can find replacement parts online.