Troubleshooting A Boat Trailer Actuator That Blows Fuses And Won't Release

Question:

I am having issues with my surge brakes and the reverse lockout on my tandem axel boat trailer. I am capable of fixing it, just not sure where to start. The trailer is only a couple of years old and I dont want to change part unnecessarily The brakes lock up when I am backing up and when I check the fuse is blown in my truck for trailer back upinch If found some suspect wiring disconnects that go from the solenoid to the trailer plug and replaced those......worked for about 3 backups then blew the fuse again. found a wire that might have been chaffed so I fixed that. Again worked for about 3 backups. ...blew the fuse. I noticed 2 things while this has been happening. It all seemed to start happening after I unhooked the trailer and my emergency cable snagged on the truck while I was driving away. Didnt brake the cable just broke the little hook on the end. The brakes worked fine after that, so I didnt think much of it. Just now thinking I may have damaged something internally that is affecting its normal operation. Also, I my actuator doesnt seem to be disengaging all the time it doesnt move all the way forward when I am level. I cant get the manual override in the slot without disconnecting the trailer and manipulating it enough to get the pin to slide forward enough to get the lockout in. Seems to work when I am at the boat ramp when the boat trailer is at a decline. Not sure how to trouble shoot this to determine the parts I need to fix it

asked by: Bill H

Expert Reply:

If you're referring to the reverse light circuit blowing each time then that would indicate an issue with the solenoid's wiring. With both the mechanical and wiring issues you've stated the best and safest option is really going to be replacing the actuator to avoid any further issues. You can try checking the solenoid wiring but it giving you hard time trying to utilize the manual override is concerning.

Without the specifics of your trailer it's a bit hard to recommend a replacement but I can tell you about the Dexter DX7.5L A-60 Brake Actuator w Electric Lockout # DX56FR that you were looking at. This actuator fits 3" x 5" straight trailer tongues and comes with a 2" ball coupler. It's rated for 7,500lbs and has a zinc coating to help protect it from rust and corrosion. If you trailer's specifics differ from this then let me know I'd be happy to fid the correct replacement for your needs.

expert reply by: Kevin C