Surge Brake Maintenance

[rebars1]

Older TrailRite trailier, dual axles, with a 1974 18' IMP boat. When I am towing and am either starting forward or slow down, there is a loud metallic squeak coming from the coupler as the surge brake lever mechanism moves back or forth. Is this normal, or should I try to lubricate the mechanism (it does have some rust). Is there regular maintenance required for these?

 

[Snowfish]

Re: Surge Brake Maintenance

Is there regular maintenance required for these?

Yes. System should be flushed, and bled, every 2-3 years, IMO. Brake fluid Loves absorbing water. Water sinks to the bottom and forms rust. Brake adjustment in that same time frame.

Check your brake fluid. If it's dry, you will probably need a new actuator. If it's a brown, muddy color, a good flush & bleed maybe all that's needed.

I use a turkey baster to remove the muddy fluid fro the master cylinder. Then fill and remove until fluid is clear. Next flush until clear fluid comes out of the bleeders.

 

[rebars1]

Re: Surge Brake Maintenance

Thanks Snowfish.

What about the part(s) that are in the trailer coupler at the tongue, ahead of the master cylinder? Should they be cleaned and/or greased? Do they all make the squeaking noise?

 

[theBrownskull]

Re: Surge Brake Maintenance

I don't know if your system can be greased by a grease fitting or "zirk." My last boat did not have "zirks" so I placed grease in the parts ( slide blocks, rollers, and bushings) in front of the master cylinder in the tongue where metal was in contact with metal.

 

[rebars1]

Re: Surge Brake Maintenance

Thanks. I will try squirting some lithium grease on the moving parts.