Troubleshooting HydraStar Actuator HBA-10 Not Working with 2012 Ford F-150, Factory Brake Controller

Question:

2012 Ford F150 FX4 with factory installed controller. No humming from the unit when brakes are applied and more importantly, no braking. I ran through the test scenario that was prescribed using a separate 12v battery and connecting the wires in a particular order. The unit worked with that test. I then tested the controller circuit on the truck and plug. No issues there. Is this vehicle model truly compatible with the HBA-10? Would the HBA-CAM solve the issue or do I need to install an aftermarket controller? Thanks you for your assistance.

asked by: Jason

Expert Reply:

I confirmed the compatibility of your 2012 Ford F-150 with integrated controller and the HydraStar EOH Acutator for Drum Brakes # HBA-10 with my technical contact at HydraStar. You will not need the # HBA-CAM or an aftermarket controller to use this system with your truck.

You mentioned that you tested the brake controller signal on the truck's connector, but you will want to ensure that a 12V signal is reaching the # HBA-10 when you step on the truck's brake pedal. This can be done by cutting the brake signal wire connected to the blue wire on the HydraStar and using a multimeter, like # PT89ZR, to test the voltage being sent on the wire when the brake pedal is pressed. If the HydraStar unit is not receiving a full 12V signal when the brakes are pressed, then you will want to check your fuses and relays that relate to the truck's integrated controller. You may also want to check the gain setting for the brake controller to see if increasing the gains will give you 12V on the brake signal wire.

You will also want to ensure the black 12V power wire on the # HBA-10 is receiving a full 12V of power from the truck. Using a multimeter to test the black 12V power wire will be the same as testing the blue brake controller signal wire.

My contact at HydraStar also suggested checking the grounds for the system at the trailer connector and on the trailer breakaway battery. You want to ensure the grounds are making a good connection at the trailer connector and the breakaway battery. There should be no dirt or corrosion at these grounds.

If these troubleshooting steps do not provide a solution for you, please feel free to let me know and I will be happy to provide further troubleshooting for you.