Delay in Electric Over Hydraulic Trailer Brakes with Dexter System

Question:

I have had my trailer since brand new I have the same issue. The brakes work fine except for the 15 to 25 sec delay. At first they were instant then gradually started having a delay, I think the calipers are retracting to far.

asked by: Josh F

Expert Reply:

From what it sounds like, you're trying to use an OEM brake controller on a Dodge or GM to control your Dexter electric over hydraulic brake actuator. We have found that the compatibility of the OEM controllers with the electric over hydraulic brakes to be unreliable.

One possible solution is the HydraStar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator Adapter Module # HBA-CAM. This is an adapter for HydraStar actuators to work with the OEM brake controllers. Based on the picture you attached, you have a Dexter system and Dexter has said that the HydraStar adapter will work with their systems. However, we've never tested it, and HydraStar has told us they haven't either.

The definite solution for you that we have tested is replacing your OEM brake controller with an aftermarket. The Tekonsha Prodigy P2 # 90885 is one of our most popular brake controllers because of it's reliability and ease of use. It's a proportional controller so it will activate your trailer brakes proportionally with your vehicle brakes when you put your foot on the pedal. It has an easy to read display and can be mounted at any angle vertically. I've attached a video review of the P2 for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Charles S