Troubleshooting Dexter Brake Actuator for Disc Brakes on 2009 Airstream Trailer
Question:
I have a 2007 new body style GMC 3500 for a tow vehicle. I tow a 2009 air stream ,that weighs 7,500 lbs. The trailer has dual Dexter axles,and Dexter 4 piston caliper disc brakes, and a 1600 lb. Dexter brake actuator. The truck did not come with factory equipped brake controller,but has factory two package. I installed a Tekonsha P3 brake controller, that has electric over hydraulic function. My problems are,1- when pressing brake pedal slightly,I get no brake action. When I apply brakes harder they grab very hard. I noticed that when slight pressure on brake pedal, I would get a reading of 1to 3 volts at brake controller and at brake actuator and brake pumped not come on. But anything over 3volts pump works, and thats when they just grab. I hope you can steer me to an answer. Ive been fighting this problem a while now ,and getting tired of getting white knuckles every time I see a 7-8 percent down hill downgrade. Thanks.
asked by: Mike
Helpful Expert Reply:
Since you are able to use your manual override and see the voltages, your brake controller is getting and sending signal. Since you get to 3 amps and it grabs, I reached out to Dexter regarding the Dexter DX Series Electric Over Hydraulic Brake Actuator for Disc Brakes - 1,600 psi # K71-651 you have for disc brakes. Their tech told me the actuator is designed to kick on at 3 Volts and not before, so that part is normal. However, it should be gradual increase of pressure at that point and after leading up to the full grab, so there is an issue in the circuit board if it is all or nothing. Unfortunately there is not a replacement for that circuit board so you will need to purchase and entirely new unit.
If you want another brand option, I recommend the HydraStar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes - 1,600 psi # HBA16 which is my preference. We have had very happy customers with this brake actuator along with the Prodigy P3 you have.
Products Referenced in This Question
Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes - 1,600 psi
- Brake Actuator
- Electric-Hydraulic Brake Actuator
- 1600 psi
- Disc Brakes
- Hydrastar
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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