Thread: Trailer coupler for trailer with surge brakes

Dumb question here, But how do the trailers with surge brakes work to connect the coupler to the ball hitch? Trailer in question is an EZ Loader for a Skeeter boat that I am looking at that is for sale. Whatever actuates the surge brakes is currently missing and the brake line is cut near the hitch.

I had to spray it down with WD-40 to get it move freely as the backup lockout was stuck in the forward driving position but once that freed up, everything seemed to move as it should. However, no matter what I did the piece that clamps down on the ball never would move or release. Yes, I removed the coupler lock first lol....but since that lock prevents people from opening the ball lock mechanisms I figure pull ing up on it would release it but it never did. What am I doing wrong? I know its a dumb question....Im sure I would have figured it out eventually but I was basically starting at sun as I was on my back trying to observe what may be stuck, plus I had no tools with me and my hands were slathered with residual WD-40 lol.

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If I am not mistaken. The latch for the coupler is the piece on the top with the lock ran through it

Removing the lock pin and pulling up on the tab should release the coupler.

It kinda looks like the ball coupler is smashed up and bent from someone setting it down on a ball without unlatching it. May need to get in there with a pry bar and attempt to slide it back while pulling the release.

Originally Posted by Atimm693

Removing the lock pin and pulling up on the tab should release the coupler.

It kinda looks like the ball coupler is smashed up and bent from someone setting it down on a ball without unlatching it. May need to get in there with a pry bar and attempt to slide it back while pulling the release.

Thanks. I'll give that a try if I go back for another look or to buy it. I sprayed it down with wd-40 so maybe that soaking for a few days will help too. I also could have inspected better but the location of the sun and the trailer made looking under it blinding and impossible to see what was going on under there.

On mine (87) you have to have that latch that is locked up with the lock holding it in the up position. I may have the manual somewhere (i am a hoarder)

All right answers. Coupler is locked.

Originally Posted by Rojo

All right answers. Coupler is locked.

I wasn't clear in my op, but I did have it unlocked while trying this.

Originally Posted by scout-j-m

I wasn't clear in my op, but I did have it unlocked while trying this.

pinned open (Up)? Just checking, if so yes you need to pry it open.

Originally Posted by grizwilson

pinned open (Up)? Just checking, if so yes you need to pry it open.

Yeah the latch worked fine and had a little resistance and was actuating a spring under there. Felt fine just didnt do anything.

A couple of picks with brake still in tact