Is There A Manual Lockout Key For Dexter DX7.5 Drop N Go Disc Brake Actuator?

Updated 11/03/2026 | Published 11/02/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

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Dexter DX7.5 Drop-N-Go Brake Actuator - Disc Brakes - 2" Ball - Zinc Plated - 7,500 lbs

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Replacement Solenoid Valve for Dexter Brake Actuators with Reverse Lockouts

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Question:

Looking for a manual lockout key for my Dexter DX7.5 drop-n-go disc brake actuator. Looks like it would on the top versus the sides. Do you stock this?

asked by: Dave D

Expert Reply:

Hey Dave,

The Dexter DX7.5 Drop-N-Go disc brake actuator # 099-175-20 doesn't have a manual reverse lockout key available. Instead, it uses an electric reverse lockout solenoid that prevents the trailer brakes from engaging when backing up.

If your truck already has a 7-way trailer connector, the solenoid can be wired directly to its center pin, which typically provides power when the truck is in reverse. You can use a Circuit Tester # PTW2993 to check for power there.

If the wiring is working but the solenoid has failed, we carry the Replacement Solenoid Valve # T4748800 for your actuator.

Are you having trouble with the existing solenoid, or does your tow vehicle not have the reverse light circuit wired up? I can help you get it working either way!

expert reply by: Andrew N

Dave D.

11/2/2026

Hi Andrew, sorry I wasn't clear. I need to manually lock the actuator from engaging when the trailer is unplugged from my truck and connected to my yard tractor, so I can better back it into a tight spot. Without the lockout, the trailer brakes engage when I try to back it up. Dave

Andrew N.

11/2/2026

@DaveD Hey Dave, thanks for clarifying! I checked Dexter's instructions and found that your DX7.5 has a manual lockout hole on the side of the actuator housing. You can insert the existing coupler safety pin into that hole to prevent the brakes from engaging while backing with your yard tractor. It's the hole right behind the hole that the pin goes through. Just make sure the coupler remains secured and return the pin to its normal position before towing on the road! Let me know if this works for you like I'm thinking it will.. Dexter says it's not able to be manually locked out since this prevents forward braking too, but it is a nice loophole / workaround for situations like you're in now.

David

11/2/2026

Fantastic Andrew! Thanks for that info and makes sense - I see the hole and will try backing it up w the pin in, with the tractor - appreciate your great service!

Andrew N.

11/3/2026

@David You're very welcome!