Options to Replace Atwood 82543 Hydraulic Brake Actuator

Question:

Hi there, I previously asked a question regarding the Demco Surge brake actuator, P/N DM72VR, which has no reverse lockout, and the corresponding free backing brakes. Conner suggested adding the solenoid to allow electric reverse brake function. What is the difference between the DM72VR and adding the reverse solenoid, versus ordering the DM62VR, or even the DM8605101, which already have the electric solenoid option? Also, what makes the Free backing brakes more time consuming? Regarding going from a flat 4 to a flat 5 because of the electric reverse brake solenoid - I would just replace my flat four with a flat five and the blue wire from the solenoid gets wired to the flat 5 plug, correct? My tow vehicle is a 2008 Chevy Silverado, which I believe is a 7 pin. I would just need the extension cord that goes from Flat 5 to this 7 pin, correct? Thanks!

asked by: Robert B

Expert Reply:

The Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator part # DM72VR is for drum brakes which is what you need to replace an Atwood 82543. The other options you're inquiring about are for disc brakes which won't work. In short, there are tons of different versions of the Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator each with different features such as drum/disc brake compatibility, weight capacity, ball size, lockout type etc. The correct one for the Atwood 82543 is listed above.

In order to reverse without the brakes locking up while using the Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator part # DM72VR you will want to add an electric solenoid such as the Replacement Solenoid Valve part # T4748800 or switch to free backing braking assemblies. I recommend the former which would require a 5-way for the trailer using the 5-Way Trailer Side Connector part # HM37918 and the 4 to 5-Way Vehicle Side Connector part # 47515 if you have a 4-way on the vehicle or the 7-Way to 4-Way/5-Way Trailer Adapter part # C35FR if you have a 7-way.