Does Surge Brake Actuator Need To Be Replaced Or Locked Out When Electric Brakes Are Installed?

Updated 06/09/2021 | Published 06/07/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter DX7.5L A-60 Brake Actuator w Electric Lockout - Bolt On - Disc - 2" Ball - Zinc - 7.5K

(262)

$365.62

Demco Straight Tongue Trailer Coupler - eZ-Latch - Silver - 2" Ball - Bolt On - 10,000 lbs

(276)

$82.75

Question:

I recently purchased a tandem Eagle boat trailer 26-foot and it appears as though the previous owner got fed up with the surge brake system so he drilled a hole just behind the shaft that moves forward and backward the one with the clip ring and screwed a wood crew into the hole. I dont know a thing about how these systems work but I know that he also installed electric disc brakes. The only thing Ive done so far is to add a 7-pin connector it came with a five-pin. Looking around your site, the Dexter appears to be the same one as the one on the trailer - do I need to replace the whole unit? Thanks

asked by: Max G

Expert Reply:

Since your 26' Eagle Boat Trailer with Tandem Axles has electric brakes now, you do not want to have a functioning surge brake actuator and it will need to be locked out or replaced with a standard coupler.

Now drilling a hole and using a wood screw like the previous owner is not a recommended method to lockout the coupler, and it would be better to have a welder weld the inner and outer sleeves to keep it from engaging the master cylinder.

If you would rather get rid of it all together I recommend using the Demco Channel Tongue Trailer Coupler - eZ-Latch - Silver - 2" Ball - Bolt On - 10,000 lbs # DM15000-52 which will replace your current surge brake actuator, and will bolt right on to your trailers tongue.

I included a video of the # DM15000-52 for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Samuel C