Do I have brakes? If so what do I need to get them working? Pictures

[vegas_storms]

Hi Guys,

This appears to be the original trailer that came with the boat(89 172 Cobalt). It appears to have brakes(not positive) but I have no idea what is needed to get them working. Tow vehicle is a 4runner 4x4 V6 if that helps. Just got the boat and it looks like brakes are the law here in Nevada and besides that just seems a whole lot safer to fix them.

Took pictures of the trailer, the close up of the rusty thread is at the front of the trailer and I believe something hooks up to it either from my truck or an actuator.

Any help is always greatly appreciated, thanks

P.s Its a Trail-Rite trailer if that helps.

 

[JB]

Re: Do I have brakes? If so what do I need to get them working? Pictures

Well, there are definitely brakes there. They look to me like hydraulic drum brakes, but there doesn't seem to be an actuator.

I think there should be an actuator on the tongue of the trailer at the ball hitch. A surge brake actuator would include a sliding hitch so that when the tow vehicle slows down it would operate a master cylinder to operate the brakes.

You should be able to get a clear picture of what you need at championtrailers.com.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Do I have brakes? If so what do I need to get them working? Pictures

You also have some serious plumbing issues. It appears in one picture that one of the brake hoses from the hard line to the wheel is missing. If that was left open to the air, you have at least one wheel cylinder to replace. In fact, you may be in for a total overhaul from the hitch back as all of the threaded joints look rusted. Being open to the air causes rust and scale build up in the lines. If you are not mechanically inclined and familiar with brake systems, this is a job for a service shop. Surge brakes do not require anything added to the tow vehicle except possibly a fifth wire for the reverse lockout solenoid. When the vehicle is in reverse, the solenoid is actuated by the back-up light circuit to prevent brake engagement.