Actuator Recommendation for Horse Trailer to Allow Trailer Travel Downhill Without Burning Brakes  

I read Michael Hs reply suggesting the Titan Model 60 as a replacement for the Attwood hitch system and would like to ask for some extra input. I have the Attwood 6K bolt-on hitch system on a 1999 VIP trailer I recently purchased, welded onto the frame, not bolted. I have two problems. One is that I have to make a big downhill run over several miles to get to my launch ramp and the brakes want to engage all the way down this hill, so they are burning when I get there. The other problem is the manual reverse lockout pops back out when I back up even the smallest rise. I realize this older unit needs replacement parts or full replacement, but solving the reverse lockout problem is the only likely result, I think I still have the downhill run surge activation problem. The Titan 60 looks to have a catch just behind the coupler, could a bolt be run through the eye of the catch to lock out the surge actuator when on a steep downhill? I know of other hitches where something could be placed between the coupler and the frame to keep the hitch from sliding fore or aft. My other option might be to remove the brakes altogether or go to an electric brake system? Boat is a 23foot Chaparral Sunesta so reasonably heavy. Since buying the boat I also got a Dodge RAM 2500 diesel with an engine brake, the engine brake helps on the downhill run problem but the trailer brakes still engage. Thank you etrailer.com I have already learned much from your site and the posts of your experts!

asked by: Dean T