How To Replace Surge Brake Shocks On Demco Actuator On 2004 Heritage Boat Trailer

Updated 02/22/2024 | Published 02/21/2024

Products Featured in This Question

Replacement Shock for Demco Hydraulic Trailer Brake Actuators - Models DA10, DA16, DA20, and DA91

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Demco Trailer Coupler - Cast - Adjustable Channel - eZ-Latch - Black - 2-5/16" Ball - 21K

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Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator - Drum - Primed - A-Frame - Adjustable Channel Down - 20,000 lbs

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Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator w/ Lockout - Disc - Primed - A-Frame - 8" Channel Center - 20K

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Question:

I have a 04 Heritage tri axle for my 32 sunsation boat it has the demco brake actuator it slams when taking off from a stop. I think I need to replace the 2 shocks in the unit, but I dont have access to the back rod that the shocks are held in place with because it looks like Heritage welded that part of the brake actuator into the main beams of the trailer. Please help

asked by: Steve

Expert Reply:

Thank you for the image of your setup Steve. I do not know what the manufacturer was thinking when they welded in the Demco Actuator on your boat trailer. With how it was installed there is no way for you to access that rear pin without drilling a hole through the frame. They should have installed either the Disc # DM8205222 or Drum # DM8202232 brake actuator which would sit on top of the A-Frame and allow you to access all components of the hitch. If you decide this is the best way to fix the issue you would also need a Coupler # DM14040-81.

Otherwise you would need to drill out holes on both sides of your frame rails which then may affect the strength of the frame but that is the only way to access the rear Shock # DS12426 pin on your particular trailer.

expert reply by: Bud M

Demco Surge Brake Actuator on 2004 Heritage Boat Trailer
(click to enlarge)

S L.

2/22/2024

I was afraid that I would have to drill into my trailer A frame to replace the shocks. Thank you for confirming that. Other than a " clunk" when I take off is there any concerns I should have with leaving the old shocks in place? I'm not a fan of drilling holes in my trailer

Bud M.

2/22/2024

@SL It's going to be harder on your master cylinder and could lead to air getting into the lines from the master cylinder with the shock it experiences.