Troubleshooting Dexter DX Series EOH Actuator Not Shutting Off

Question:

2010 dodge 3500 cab an chassy Bought a trailer with electric over hyd brakes. My dexter actuator is off when I connect it to my truck until I apply the brake then the actuator kicks in but won’t shut off when I quit braking. Changed control box same thing. Tested actuator seems ok If I disconnect control box motor stops I plug control box back up all is quite till I press the brake. Then it won’t stop buzzing till l disconnect. My control box shows 3.5 volts on blue wire at control box an 7pin connect. Is that enough power to keep acuator running. It goes to 12 volts when I brake but holds at 3.5.

asked by: Gary

Expert Reply:

It sounds to me like your Dexter DX Series Electric Over Hydraulic Brake Actuator for Disc Brakes # K71-651 has a short either in the power wire/brake controller wire on the trailer plug or a short in the breakaway switch.

Inspect the 12V power and brake controller pins on your trailer and tow vehicle to make sure everything is clean and free of debris. You might even want to pop open the backs of them to ensure all of the connections on the inside are good as well.

If that looks fine then check your breakaway switch and make sure it is operating properly by pulling the pin and then reinserting the pin to see if that stops it from actuating.

If you're still having issues after this please let me know! I've attached a wiring diagram for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G