How To Lock Out Older Surge Coupler After Converting To Electric Brakes

Updated 06/26/2026 | Published 06/18/2026

Question:

How to lock out a surge coupler after converting to electric brakes on a 2001 Jayco Heritage. Or do you offer a replacement non surge coupler

asked by: David

Old Surge Actuator
(click to enlarge)

Expert Reply:

Hey David.

Is there a brand or part number stamped anywhere on that older actuator? If so, we can narrow down how to lock it out manually as most have that feature. That said, the best and safest option is to just replace the old one with a new standard non-surge actuator since you already converted the brakes to electric.

You'll need to cut off the old one and weld a new one on. You'll want to measure how wide that one is, or in other words, how wide the channel is where the coupler sits in there. For example, if you have a 3" channel then you can use the Channel Tongue Trailer Coupler - Trigger Latch - Zinc - 2" Ball - Bolt On - 5K lbs # CT-5003-Z and weld it in there or have a shop do it for you.

Let me know if you get some more info on this :).

expert reply by: Andrew N

Jon

6/23/2026

Replaced a damaged coupler. Easy to install and working just fine.

David

6/26/2026

When my surge brake system failed I replaced it with electric brakes and totally ditched the surge coupling. I left the old hydraulic lines in place for the most part. ETrailer offers basic bolt on hitches that are very easy to install. Electric trailer brakes are easy to install as well.