Restoring Brakes On A 1990s Boat Trailer
Updated 11/17/2025 | Published 12/14/2024
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Question:
I have an early 90s boat trailer that was a local build not a factory trailer. It had hydraulic surge brakes. When I moved into a neighborhood with an HOA I had to cut the tongue and install a hinge purchased from etrailer so it would fit inside the garage. The surge brakes were connected via metal tubing run inside the frame so I wound up having to cut the tubing and remove the segment from the cylinder so I could open and close the hinge. To add insult to injury, I had it stored a couple years later in a facility who Im sure hit the coupling with their snow plow because it would no longer go on the hitch ball. I removed that compressing hitch couple and put a straight coupling on so I could move it. Now Id like to restore the surge brakes. I dont want to be cheap but funds are not unlimited and it is a 25 year old boat and trailer. Im sure Ill need to replace the hydraulic actuator and pressure coupling. But Im unsure of the best way to reconnect the hydraulic lines to the brakes. Seems to me that if I try to use the existing line inside the frame it would be a constant pinch point when closing the hinge. I need to know what you carry for this project and any advice on routing the hydraulic lines.
asked by: Doug
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Expert Reply:
Hello Doug, thanks for reaching out. You will need to replace the current coupler with a surge brake actuator. For that I recommend the Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator like part # DM72VR which is for drum brakes, a 2" ball and bolts to a 3" tongue. It has mounting holes 3" apart on center. Please confirm that these specs match your trailer.
You can run the brake lines thru the tongue, you just need to make sure and use a flexible line in the fold-away section. If you need all new brake lines I recommend using a kit like part # 18TA-BLKIT which is for a tandem axle trailer and comes with an 18' main line.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Hydraulic Brake Line with Fittings - 18-25/32" Long
- Accessories and Parts
- Brake Actuator
- Trailer Brakes
- Disc Brakes
- Hydraulic Drum Brakes
- 18-25/32 Inch Long
- Brake Lines
- Flexible Brake Hose
- Brake Line Components
- Dexter
more information >
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Jesse M.
11/17/2025
Hey Doug, how did things go with the Demco actuator and the flexible brake line setup for your trailer hinge? Your update could make it easier for others restoring older trailers with fold-away tongues.