How to bleed the brakes on a surge brake actuator on boat trailer
Updated 08/08/2025 | Published 08/08/2022
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Question:
Do you have a video on bleeding a A60 actuator with surge brakesdisc on a single axle boat trailer. Ive tried pressing up on the release and pumping the master cylinder with a screwdriver but the fluid doesnt seem to want to move . Any thought?
asked by: Tony
Helpful Expert Reply:
When bleeding the brakes on a surge actuator, such as the Dexter DX7.5L A-60 Brake Actuator w Electric Lockout # DX56FR, you want to start by making sure there is fresh fluid in the reservoir then press a screw driver against the rod in the access hole to pump the brakes. If you don't have an access hole, wrap the safety chains around a pole or board and push the top into the coupler to force the pumping action that way. I attached a detailed write-up page that explains this process, and I also attached a helpful demonstration video for this.
If you cannot get the brakes to pump and bleed the fluid, then your actuator will need replaced or rebuilt. It is normally a better option to replace the entire actuator/coupler since they aren't terribly expensive, but if you decide to rebuild it then here are the parts you will likely need for your A60:
-Replacement Master Cylinder Assembly for Dexter Brake Actuators - A60 Disc Brakes # DX44FR
-Replacement Shock Absorber Spring Kit # TK71-758-00
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Surge Brake Actuator - Disc - Elec Lockout - 2" Ball - Zinc - 7.5K - 3" x 5"
- Brake Actuator
- Surge Brake Actuator
- Farm Trailer
- Boat Trailer
- Construction Trailer
- Travel Trailer
- Utility Trailer
- Bolt-On
- 7500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Ball Coupler
- 3 Inch Channel Tongue
- Disc Brakes
- Electric Lockout
- Dexter
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Steven
8/7/2025
i own the dx56fr was wanting a manual with instructions did u have a video on bleeding brakes can u help me thanks steven