Replacement Surge Coupler for Atwood that Has Manual Lock Out

Question:

My torsion axle trailer has drum brakes and needs a new acuator. The current one has a manual reverse lockout lever and its parts are no longer available. I was planning on purchasing the dexter 60zx7000 and am concerned about backing upwards in my driveway. The local distributor indicated that the acuator would only halfway brake In a slow reverse they called it a half shoe and that it is designed to be backed upwards uphill without problem. I asked if a solenoid would be required and I was instructed that this unit does not work with a solenoid. I do not have a 5 wire connection on my vehicle and it would prove to be difficult and expensive to install. The acuator reads Breakaway will not hold in reverse service brakes before towing. If needed I would install an acuator with a lockout pin instead, I just need guidance to make the best purchase. Thank you for your help.

asked by: Corey

Atwood Coupler Surge
(click to enlarge)

Expert Reply:

Thanks for the pictures of your actuator Corey, I can see you have an Atwood coupler which like you mentioned is no longer available so it would be time to replace it with something current. Since you would prefer a manual lockout actuator (don't blame you) I would go with the Dexter part # T63FR which does come with a lock out pin that will prevent the brakes from locking up in reverse like you want.

expert reply by: Jameson C