How to bleed the brakes on a surge brake actuator on boat trailer

Question

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

1

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

expert reply by: Andrew N

1

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

Andrew N.

8/8/2025

@Steven Hey there. You'll just need to stick a screw driver in the hole underneath the actuator and pump/pressurize the brakes. Then go to the brake assembly and open the bleeder screw/valve and let out the air bubbles. Might have to do this a few times. Check out the demo video here.

Helpful Links

tv-install-and-review-dexter-a-60-brake-actuator-dx29fr.aspx

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How to bleed the brakes on a surge brake actuator on boat trailer

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