Troubleshooting Hydraulic Trailer Brakes Initially Locking Up After Coming to a Stop

Published 07/17/2023

Question:

My boat trailer has hydraulic break system. When I come to a complete stop and try to go forward it slam like the breaks are on until the trailer start to move then it fine until I come to a complete stop. My trailer is 7 years old. That started last year not as bad as it is now. You have any ideas why it started to do this ?

asked by: Pierre G

Helpful Expert Reply:

It sounds like the shock absorber might be the issue here. The shock absorber, like part # T2336200 for Dexter Model 60 Brake Actuators, is designed to "push" the actuator back into a naturally opened position but it sounds like your coupler is staying compressed until your tow vehicle pulls it back open, which is why your trailer brakes are still activated until that initial "pull" you're feeling after a stop.

Your trailer coupler should be very difficult to compress by hand (typically a pole is needed for leverage). If you're able to easily compress the coupler then the shock absorber would be the issue.

If you let me know what model actuator you have I can help you determine what replacement shock absorber you're needing.

expert reply by: Jon G