Using HydraStar HydraStar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator HBA-16 During Prolonged Stops

Question:

HydraStar HBA-16. I am considering replacing my current surge brake actuator with the HydraStar 1600 psi actuator on my 2 axle, 4 disc brake system installed on my boat trailer. I live in Southern California and have to deal with traffic problems. My concern is having the EOH actuator over heat during prolonged periods of stop and go traffic. I read in the HydraStar owners manual that prolonged use in heavy traffic or if stopped at railroad crossing may cause overheating problems. If and when I encounter heavy stop and go traffic, would it be prudent to adjust the gain on the in cab brake controller to 0 as a temporary measure only to avoid any overheating issues? Once Im moving again, Id adjust the gain back to the normal setting. If I understand how the brake controller operates, the higher the gain setting, more voltage is supplied thus allowing the pump to turn faster, correct? So, with 0 gain, the pump wont run when I step on the brakes. My truck is a 2015 Ram 2500 and is equipped with the factory brake controller along with the ability to various gain settings via the touch screen. Any help you can provide would be appreciated.

asked by: Tom N

Expert Reply:

This was a very intelligent question and you are correct that the HydraStar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes # HBA16 can be overheated during longer periods of stopping.

To get the definitive word I contacted HydraStar about your suggestion in regards to adjusting the gain to zero on your brake controller during stop and go traffic and was told that setting the gain to zero would "alleviate the potential for overheating in stop and go traffic."

I was also told that so long as your foot is not sitting on the brake pedal for an extended period of time (three minutes or more) you won't have an issue with overheating.

The other thing you could do is simply put your truck in park and take your foot off the brake and that would also be a way to prevent overheating with the HydraStar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes # HBA16.

expert reply by: Kyle S