How to Find Correct Replacement Hydraulic Surge Brake Actuator for Trailer

Updated 03/16/2022 | Published 03/14/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter DX7.5L A-60XL Surge Brake Actuator - Drum - 2" Ball - Zinc - 7.5K

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Replacement Consumer Lockout Key for Dexter Axle Brake Actuators - Qty 1

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Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Drum Brakes - 1,000 psi

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

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Hydrastar Marine Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator w/ Breakaway and 7-Way RV Harness - 1,000 psi

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Hydrastar Marine Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator w/ Breakaway and 7-Way RV Harness - 1,600 psi

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Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Off-Road Mode - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

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Question:

How do i find out what actuator replacement i need for my trailer? I am also considering going to electric from surge instead so i would need a trailer tongue that doesnt move also not sure how i figure out what one i need if i go that route instead

asked by: Jeremy

Expert Reply:

In order to find out what you need for a replacement actuator you will want to start by finding out what kind of brakes you have. A different brake actuator is needed if you have drum brakes or disc brakes. You will also want to choose a replacement that meets or exceeds the weight of your trailer and probably one that fits the same size ball your current coupler has. Occasionally you may be able to pull a part number off of your current actuator to see if a direct replacement is available.

Assuming you have drum brakes, and your trailer isn't over 7,500 lbs, you could use the Dexter DX7.5L A-60 Brake Actuator - Bolt On - Drum - 2" Ball - Zinc - 7,500 lbs # DX27FR. This coupler has a bolt on installation and fits a 3" x 4" straight tongue. It uses a 2" ball and would require the # DX94FR for manual lockout.

For electric over hydraulic I would recommend the HydraStar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator # HBA-10 for drum brakes or the # HBA16 for disc. Really the best option to get everything you need would be to purchase the entire Hydrastar kit which comes with wiring and a breakaway. For drum brakes that would be the # HS381-9065 and for disc the # HS381-9067. You would also need a brake controller compatible with EOH like the # RED44FR. You would also need to lock out your actuator or buy a standard coupler.

I have attached some review videos along with a link to all of our available actuators and couplers that you can check out.