Troubleshooting Electric Over Hydraulic Braking System on 53 Foot Carson Trailer  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Without knowing the exact brand of brake controller or being positive about the model of electric over hydraulic actuator, I won't be able to provide you with much in the way of specifics, but I'd be happy to provide you with some general troubleshooting strategies.

Since you state the electric over hydraulic actuator is operating, I'm leaning more toward there being a problem with the brake controller or the trailer brakes themselves.

Is this a recent problem, or have the brakes always acted this way? What brand/model brake controller are you using? Some controllers are pretty sensitive about the angle at which they're installed or if they're not installed exactly parallel with the direction of travel. It's possible that your controller might have been jostled out of alignment as the driver was entering or exiting the vehicle. Refer to the instructions for your brake controller and be sure it's properly set.

Are you noticing any squealing or grinding from the trailer brakes? If so, the pads might be worn and in need of replacement. Are the brake rotors clean and free of grease? If you've blown a hub seal, it might have allowed grease onto the brake rotors and pads, leading to less effective braking.

Are the brake lines kinked at any point? A kinked steel line can prevent brake fluid from moving through the system with enough pressure to fully apply the brakes. If there's air in the brake lines, it can also cause poor performance. You might try bleeding the brakes.

expert reply by: Mike L

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