Can Actuators with Electric Lockout be Locked Out Manually and Should Rusty Torsion Axle be Replaced
Question:
i have a 2001 loadrite boat trailer with tandem axle. 21foot boat it has torsion axles and drum brakes on one. i am looking to convert to disk. How do you know if the torsion axles are good they are pretty rusty?. These actuators with electric lockout, can they be locked out manually as I tend to unplug the trailer from the tow vehicle before backing into water.
asked by: MIKE
Expert Reply:
The important part of a torsion axle is the inside where the axle gets its suspension capabilities. Rust on the outside is not a big deal unless it is rusting through the axle beam. It would be a good idea to remove the rust and paint the axles to help prevent corrosion.
Actuators with electric reverse lockouts cannot be locked out manually. However, since you are backing the boat trailer down a boat ramp you would not need a lock out because gravity is pulling the boat away from the truck. This means that the actuator will not push fluid back to the brakes.
For a disc brake kit I would need to know the inner and outer bearing numbers stamped into the side of the bearings, the bolt pattern of the wheels, and the wheel size. I have linked an article on adding disc brakes to a trailer for you.
