Titan 7000 lb Hydraulic Actuator Versus Atwood Model

Question:

The Atwood has a jack-knife action to apply the brake pressure. It appears the Titan has a flat back and forth motion. Is this a correct assumption? Will the Titan provide smoother operation? My Atwood coupler failed and came off the ball. The trailer went intot he tailgate of my truck. The breakaway cable came out of the coupler but did not lock up the brakes. I need to replace, but am unsure on which to purchase. Thank you.

asked by: David

Helpful Expert Reply:

Your assumption about the Titan versus the Atwood coupler is correct. When the tow vehicle comes to a stop, the front of the coupler portion will swivel downward which compresses the actuator. The Titan simply slides directly rearward, with no pivot involved. Although either coupler would serve you well, I prefer the simpler Titan design.

The Titan actuator you referenced, part # T43397007K would be ideal for you if your trailer uses drum brakes. Your brake assemblies will not be needed to be free-backing, as this coupler can use a reverse lock-out # T4748800. The lock-out is activated via the 5-pole trailer connector on the reverse light function. The extra pin on the connector would attach to the reverse lamp circuit on the tow vehicle, thus disabling the trailer brakes when the vehicle transmission is placed in reverse.

expert reply by: Mike L