Troubleshooting a Trailer Brake Actuator
Question:
I converted a air over hydraulic to electric over hydraulic with a Dexter E/H 1000, about 10 years ago, and it worked awesome for about 6 years. It started cutting out with extreme braking when I needed it the most, and since then it will cut out under normal breaking. All seems to be working fine when braking then just shuts down, like a over load, or a fuse burns out, but will work again with the next pump of the brakes. I have to adjusted controller to low setting so they will work a little bit. I dont use the trailer much, just from job site to site once or twice a year, but want the brakes at peak. I use the protegy controller on 07 GMC.2500. Do you think the dexter pump is defective of maybe just wore out? Electric brakes controller work fine on other trailers with electric brakes that I have. Thanks in advance.
asked by: Danny.
Expert Reply:
The Dexter E/H 1000 you referenced like # K71-650 could certainly be worn out. 10 years is a good lifespan. I would check the fluid levels and ensure there isn't any cut or frayed wires. Also, you will want to ensure the 12 volt battery the actuator is attached to should be fully charged. A depleted trailer battery could cause the unit to stop working. And lastly, there could be an internal short within the actuator. These reasons could be the cause of the intermittent working and not working.
If you decide a new one is appropriate, the Dexter electric over hydraulic # K71-650 has 1,000 psi is for drum brakes and # K71-651 has 1,600 psi is for disc brakes.
The Dexter actuators have 4 wires to connect. I have included a diagram of how the unit will need to be wired. You will need a breakaway kit, if you do not already have one, for use with this unit. You can use # 34-285.
I included a video review on a break-away kit for you too.
Products Referenced in This Question
Dexter Trailer Breakaway Kit with Built-In Battery Charger - Top Load
- Trailer Breakaway Kit
- Kit with Charger
- Top Load
- Single-axle
- Tandem-axle
- Dexter
more information >
Dexter DX Series Electric Over Hydraulic Brake Actuator for Drum Brakes - 1,000 psi
- Brake Actuator
- Electric-Hydraulic Brake Actuator
- 1000 psi
- Drum Brakes
- Dexter
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter DX Series Electric Over Hydraulic Brake Actuator for Disc Brakes - 1,600 psi
- Brake Actuator
- Electric-Hydraulic Brake Actuator
- 1600 psi
- Disc Brakes
- Dexter
more information >
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