Replacement Brakes and Axle for 1997 Magic Tilt Boat Trailer
Updated 04/06/2026 | Published 03/31/2026
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Question:
Good morning: I have a 1997 Magic Tilt boat trailer with no brakes. The rear axle is shot, but there is a new Dexter 3.5k on the front. This was originally a surge brake setup, but I’m positive that the master cylinder is junk. Looking for recommendations for replacing my current setup with either electric or new hydraulic. My questions are: - Which would be an easier shade tree job, new hydraulic or electric? - Do you have a kit to replace one or both axles, considering I have a new one already? -Trying to keep it as inexpensive as possible. Sorry if this is a lot, and thanks in advance for your help!
asked by: Michael L
Expert Reply:
Hey Michael! I would add hydraulic surge brakes since it is a boat trailer. Dealing with the hydraulic lines and fluid I would say a little more involved upfront, but the better option overall. You will need the following:
-Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator # DM72VR
-Hydraulic Trailer Brake Kit - Uni-Servo - Free Backing # AKFBBRK-35
OR
-Hydraulic Brake Kit - Uni-Servo - Free Backing - Dacromet # AKFBBRK-35-D (if you're worried about corrosion)
-Demco Hydraulic Brake Line Kit for Tandem Axle Trailers - Drum Brakes # DM5428
There will potentially be a higher cost at the start but you won't have to worry about corrosion and electrical issues from submersion. If that isn't something you're worried about, you can set up electric brakes using # AKEBRK-35-SA and then # e99011 for a 7-way. You will also need # 10-1-1 to run to the brakes, and a brake controller if you don't have one.
Do you have a 7-way on your vehicle? If you don't have a brake controller or 7-way then we're running the cost up quite a bit more for the electric brake setup. If you don't have hub and drum assemblies both setups will require # AKHD-545-35-K or # AKHD-545-35-G-K (galvanized) as well.
As far as the axle goes, I would need to know your hub face and spring seat measurement to find a replacement. You can add that below and I will see what is available.
(click to enlarge)
Shad C.
4/6/2026
Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator 2 inch. We ordered this to replace our original hitch on our Maxim boat trailer. Super smooth process to order and easy to install to replace the original hitch. 5 star and great product and customer support.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator - Drum - Zinc - 2" Ball - 7,000 lbs
- Brake Actuator
- Surge Brake Actuator
- Farm Trailer
- Boat Trailer
- Construction Trailer
- Travel Trailer
- Utility Trailer
- Bolt-On
- 7000 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Ball Coupler
- 3 Inch Channel Tongue
- Drum Brakes
- No Lockout
- Demco
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Sandy
4/6/2026
I recently purchased a master surge break for the hitch, which has worked out very well. And you don't have to worry about wire shorting out by corrosion from the water.