Options to Add a Brake Actuator to an Off-Road Trailer

Updated 06/30/2021 | Published 06/29/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator w/ Electric Lockout - Disc - Primed - Adjustable Channel - 8,000 lbs

(12)

$252.46

Lock N Roll Articulating Channel Tongue Trailer Coupler - 3" Channel - Trailer Side

(88)

$177.24

Lock N Roll Articulating Trailer Hitch for 2" Receivers - Vehicle Side - 11,000 lbs

(153)

$376.51

Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

(3548)

$118.67

Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes - 1,600 psi

(248)

$844.97

Question:

Would this work with a 2600 lb trailer? Want to add surge brakes to an off-road trailer that uses a pintle ring. Would changing the spring inside compensate for the weight rating difference?

asked by: Craig D

Expert Reply:

As the Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator # DM8759422 uses a compression shock that is designed specifically for this, it will not be able to be replaced with a smaller spring. That being said, this is pretty highly rated for a 2,600 pound trailer. Unfortunately, we do not have an actuator like this with a lower rating at this time.

What may be a better option, will be to go with an electric over hydraulic actuator, like the HydraStar # HBA16, and then pair it with the Lock N Roll Articulating Channel Tongue # 336TS508 for the trailer and the Lock N Roll # 336VS501 for your hitch. You will need to have a brake controller that can handle electric over hydraulic systems, like the Redarc # RED44FR, and a 7 Way on the back of your 2004 Lexus LX 470. If you do not already have a 7 Way, you will need to add the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7.

expert reply by: Lazer S