Should Reverse Lockout Solenoid of Actuator Make Clicking Sound

Updated 09/29/2025 | Published 09/05/2025

Question:

Trying to help my son with his Sea Ray boat trailer. It has a Dexter A60/A75/XR84 BOLT ON UNIT up front. My question is, how can you test if the solenoid in the Dexter unit is working without moving the trailer? Does it do a clicking sound or ? The vehicle that tows it is in the shop, and would like to make sure the trailer is ready and OK. Thanks, Ed

asked by: Ed

Expert Reply:

Hey Ed, yes the solenoid of the reverse lock out is going to click when it is activated. You would definitely be able to hear it too. Have you tried this already?

expert reply by: Jameson C

Jameson C.

9/29/2025

Hey Ed, did you have a chance to listen for the clicking sound from the solenoid on your son's Sea Ray boat trailer? I'm curious to know if it helped confirm that everything is working properly, as it could give others confidence when checking their trailers.

9/29/2025

Hello, You gave me the same tip 2 of my sons gave me, being around boat trailers for a long time. In this case there is no click. I reworked the whole trailer wiring. In reverse, the brakes are releasing, but I skeptical that maybe the solenoid might be stuck and the brakes are released all the time? So right now it needs further investigation. I’ll try and give an update, when there is time to further check it out. Ed

Jameson C.

9/29/2025

@Ed If you use a long jack handle for leverage and the safety chains you can push the actuator in and apply the rear brakes to test if they are working. You would have to have the wheels up in the air so you could turn them by hand.