Does Anyone Know How to Fix A Surge Braking System?

[Kevin A]

When we picked up our 16' UHaul, we were told the surge braking system needed repair (the PO said the cylinder needed repair). What do I look for? Does anyone have any experience with this type of braking system?

Kevin

[pjanits]

I suggest you make friends ( pizza /beer) with the local U-haul guy and see what he says. U-haul usually has special made stuff. Maybe you could get parts thru him.

[Kevin A]

I suggest you make friends ( pizza /beer) with the local U-haul guy and see what he says. U-haul usually has special made stuff. Maybe you could get parts thru him.

My experience with UHaul dealerships is that they are often run by some local guys who find it difficult to get my equipment registration right and are about 19 years old. There is a dealership in Forest Park near us, so I'll try there but I'm not expecting much help!

[Gina D.]

Try a boat trailer place.

Surge brakes are very common on them.

[Brian B-P]

No direct experience, but a hydraulic surge brake system is just like the brakes in a car, but with no power assist, and with a linkage in the coupler instead of a brake pedal. The master cylinder in the coupler works exactly like one in a car, and would be rebuilt the same way. For many cars, it is cheaper to replace the master cylinder than to rebuild it; I have only replaced them.

In addition to boat trailers, just about any rental trailer heavy enough to legally require brakes is likely to have the same type of surge brake system, so many trailer fabrication, rental, and repair businesses will be quite familiar with them.

If you can pull the master cylinder out and take it with you, I think a good auto parts person would be valuable - they may be able to match it, despite its trailer origins.

[Craig Nold]

Kevin,
As with electric trailer brakes, most hydraulic trailer brakes are/were made by Dexter. You will find a wide range of parts at the Dexter online store but you may need to call Dexter for identification of the parts to fit you trailer. (574) 295-7888 I would start with the master cylinder. Fill it with brake fluid and check for leaks. If the fluid runs out, call the boat trailer place. If the fluid doesn’t run out, call the boat trailer place and have them check it out anyway.
http://dexteraxle.com/brake_cylinders___rebuild_kits

[Kevin A]

Kevin,
As with electric trailer brakes, most hydraulic trailer brakes are/were made by Dexter. You will find a wide range of parts at the Dexter online store but you may need to call Dexter for identification of the parts to fit you trailer. (574) 295-7888 I would start with the master cylinder. Fill it with brake fluid and check for leaks. If the fluid runs out, call the boat trailer place. If the fluid doesn’t run out, call the boat trailer place and have them check it out anyway.
http://dexteraxle.com/brake_cylinders___rebuild_kits

Thanks! This will get me started on the process. Your comments are much appreciated!

Kevin