Recommended Weight Distribution System for a Boat Trailer with a Surge Brake Actuator
Question:
I have a dual axle boat trailer that weighs 6600 lbs that includes the trailer, boat and gear. I purchased a Curt weight distribution system and installed it and it did not work. The brakes did not release completely. My actuator is a Demco and works fine without the WD system. I have about $750 into the system since I needed the A frame for a boat trailer and additional shank. I did talk to the Demco engineer that designed their actuator and he advised against using their product with the Curt system. Guess he was correct. Is there another actuator brand that does work or would you advise going with an electric system. I have a 2015 Yukon XL with OEM brake reg. but I see that may not work without additional wiring. The current actuator and Kodiak brakes work good now, but on Interstate driving in construction zones the lanes get so narrow that I thought a sway system would be a big help. Thanks
asked by: Jeff A
Expert Reply:
I spoke with my contact at Curt who said he was not aware of any brake actuator problems related to use with their weight distribution systems that utilize steel-on-steel friction, # C17500. However, you may want to consider a system that does not use steel-on-steel friction because your brake actuator may be struggling to overcome the resistance between the spring bar and the frame bracket. If resistance is the issue, then changing to a different brake actuator might not have much of an affect. Also, I would not advise going with an electric sway control system for a boat trailer because this would require you to switch to electric brakes. The electrical components/wiring would be fully submerged in water at times as well.
A Weight Distribution System that uses lift chains, such as the Blue-Ox SwayPro # BXW1006, may be a better option because it will not have any steel-on-steel friction. The SwayPro system may be easier on your surge brake coupler because it will not have to overcome the steel-on-steel resistance.
Please check out the attached review video for additional info.
Products Referenced in This Question
Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - Clamp On - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Severe Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 900 lbs
- Blue Ox
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt TruTrack Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control - Trunnion - 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- WD With Sway Control
- Some Sway
- Includes Shank
- Electric Brake Compatible
- Surge Brake Compatible
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Allows Backing Up
- 900 lbs
- CURT
more information >
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