Best Options for Replacing Hydraulic Drum Brake Actuator on Jayco Eagle

Question:

I just bought a 2000 Jayco Eagle UDK with an Atwood MPD 85778 hydraulic surge drum brake actuator with manual back up lever. The break away cable was rusted in two, so I got your replacement kit. Upon preparing to install I see the master cylinder is rusted out inside, so I figured I would just get a new full assembly as the shock is original and probably is due for replacement. I see an alternative Demco. How do I determine if my brakes require the back up lockout, or do I just go with a hitch that has that. It appears there are different Demco's with and without the lockout or with electric lockout. What are my best options?

asked by: Sam K

Helpful Expert Reply:

There are a number of things you'll need to know before choosing the right brake actuator for your Jayco Eagle. Atwood MPD 85778 is actually just the literature number, so I wouldn't be able to tell you what a direct replacement would be. It's important to remember you'll need to make sure your actuator's coupler matches the size of the hitch ball on your tow vehicle, with the common size being 2 inches.

As for the lockout, your brakes aren't going to require them but it's a highly desired feature because it will allow you to back up, so it's something I'd recommend investing in. The drum brake actuator with electric lockout I recommend checking out is the Titan # T43397007K, which mounts to a 3" wide channel tongue.

I've added links to a video reviews of both of these actuators for you, as well as a link to our page with each of our drum brake actuators.

expert reply by: Kyle S