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
- Boat Trailer
- Construction Trailer
- Farm 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 >
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on Brake Actuator
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.