Solution for Older Carlisle HydraStar HBA12 Doesn't Work w 2015 Chevy Integrated Brake Controller

Question:

I have a 2015 GMC 3500 and a triple axle boat trailer with hydraulic disc brakes. It has a Carlisle HBA-12 Gen 5 hydraulic brake actuator serial # 701585, gold color. I get brakes if I manually squeeze the trucks integrated brake controller lever. But when I press the brake pedal to activate the brakes, all I get is brake lights on the boat trailer, but no brakes. I get brakes on my other 2 trailers when I press the brake pedal though tested to make sure. The HBA-CAM 381-7073 has it printed on it that it is for HBA-12 serial #705700 and higher. My serial number is lower. I also read something that it is not compatible with the gold colored units by Hydrastar, not sure if they are different than the Carlisle units. My unit has 4 wires and the bleeder on top. Also what happens if I need to pull the trailer with another vehicle if the HBA-CAM is installed? Thank you for your time.

asked by: Wayne B

Expert Reply:

I have a solution for you, but it requires you to replace your integrated brake controller with one that is compatible with electric over hydraulic brake actuators. For the Prodigy P3 part # 90195 would be what you would need as it has a specific mode for EOH trailers and is basically the nicest controller around.

The issue you are having is that your controller just isn't compatible with the # HBA-12 due to it's age. You are correct too that the part # HBA-CAM wouldn't work because of how low your serial number is. Which you did a good job researching that as well. The HBA-CAM only works with HBA-12's with serial number 705700 and higher.

I attached a help article on how to install a brake controller in your vehicle and replace your integrated brake controller.

expert reply by: Jameson C