I"m able to use a large screw driver or anything big and strong, put the end up into the coupler that locks on the ball then push towards the boat, then lift back up to release pressure. Bought my boat 1 month ago, didn't feel like the brakes were working, this I confirmed after taking the tire off. Now I have to figure out how bad it is, the boat was new 2004 they used it that summer then it sat for 5 years.Probably seized cylinders ?