Help With Installing Dexter DX7.5L A-60 Brake Actuator On Boat Trailer

Question:

I just recieved a Dexter DX7.5L brake actuator from etrailer. I am installing it on a 3x5 rectangular trailer tongue. The actuator will obviously slide over the tongue with several inches 2? of the actuator housing protruding above the togue. My question: How far onto the tongue should I slide the new actuator? Should I leave as little actuator hanging off of the front of the tongue as possible? The actuator obviously will slide over the tongue tubing, with a larger part of the actuator housing sitting above the tube, but how much should be supported by the tube and how much should hang off of the front? I am replacing an older UFP A-60, if I matched the existing mounting holes, much of the actuator would be hanging off of the front of the tongue. I presume that I should slide it on as far as I can and drill new holes? I assume 2 bolts suffice? Photo of the old and new actuators on the trailer tongue attached. The sheet metal bolted to the trailer tongue aft of the actuator can obviously be removed... Thanks

asked by: John

Original Surge Brake Actuator
(click to enlarge)

Dexter DX7.5L A-60 Actuator # DX56FR
(click to enlarge)

Expert Reply:

The Dexter DX7.5L A-60 Actuator # DX56FR you have is designed to be mounted on the end of the trailer frame as seen in the image below. Based on how your actuator was mounted the Actuator # DX89FR would best install like your current actuator.

If you choose to continue with the actuator you have you will need to slide it onto the frame as seen in the image I attached and drill for all 4 holes.

expert reply by: Bud M

Dexter DX7.5L A-60 Actuator # DX56FR Installed On End of Trailer Frame
(click to enlarge)

John

6/27/2024

Sort of makes sense...although my current actuator sits partially above the tube, as can be seen in the photo, and was bolted on with only 2 bolts... It does seem challenging to access the electric lockout with the actuator installed as you show...

Bud M.

6/27/2024

@John I understand the confusion which is largely because there are so many different mounting styles used which is why you see so many different options on our site. As for the bolt holes the manufacturer determines the amount of holes required based on how it is attached and the amount required for securing the coupler.