Hydraulic Trailer Brakes Lock Up Moving Forward Using Titan Brake Actuator

Updated 07/10/2014 | Published 07/09/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Zinc-Plated Brake Actuator - Disc - 2-5/16" Ball - Bolt On - 8,000 lbs

(31)

$493.38

Replacement Shock for Dexter Model 6 and 10 Brake Actuators

(145)

$70.84

Replacement Shock Absorber for Dexter Model 60 Brake Actuators

(120)

$74.08

Question:

Recently my drum brakes have been locking up in forward and heating up. I have read where this actuator has a device which keeps pressure on the system. Where is it located and has anyone else had a problem like this?

asked by: Gary

Expert Reply:

Disc brake actuators like # T4747200 do not have a check valve in them or a device to keep pressure in the system like drum brake actuators do. On a drum brake actuator there is a check valve inside the master cylinder that regulates the amount of pressure that goes back to the brakes. The wheel cylinders on hydraulic drum brakes will hold pressure as well.

If the master cylinder and wheel cylinders (if the trailer has drum brakes) are fine then you could have some air in the system or the brakes otherwise need to be bled. You can use the bleeding method in the instructions linked for you to bleed the trailer brakes.

There could also be a problem with the actuator. If it pushes in to apply fluid to the brakes but does not return to normal, towing position, then it would keep pressure in the lines. You would need to replace the shock. The shock for the Model 6 actuators is # T1242600. If it is a model 60 then use # T2336200.

expert reply by: Michael H