Can Trailer Brake Coupler Actuator Be Used for Flat Towing a Jeep Wrangler

Updated 04/10/2023 | Published 04/08/2023

Question:

Will these brake actuators fit on a Blue Ox tow bar ? I want to tow a Jeep wrangler JT. DX 7.5 A60 is the unit I want to use. Thanks

asked by: Lonnie H

Expert Reply:

In order to safely apply brakes while flat towing your Jeep Wrangler you need a supplemental brake system. The Dexter DX7.5L A-60 Brake Actuator # DX83FR is designed to be installed on a trailer and apply hydraulic trailer brakes so it won't be compatible with a Blue Ox tow bar OR the bakes on your Wrangler.

For your application I recommend going with the Brake Buddy Classic 3 Portable Supplemental Braking System # HM39494 because it is removable so you can install it in different tow vehicles if you upgrade at a later date, and this is designed for flat towing setups so it applies the actual brake in your Jeep instead of trying to connect to the hydraulic brake lines on your vehicle.

The only tow bar setup I know of that has an actuator built in is the Ready Brute system (we don't carry this) but I've heard back and forth opinions on the performance of it which is why I recommend using a standalone brake system like the Brake Buddy Classic 3 instead.

expert reply by: Jon G