Can Air Over Hydraulic Trailer Brakes be Converted to Electric Over Hydraulic on Military Trailer

Question:

I am looking to convert an air over hydraulic drum brake system on a military trailer M200A1 to electric over hydraulic brake system so I can pull it with my truck legally. I have a 2015 Silverado HD 3500. What is the preferred method and how hard is this? Thanks

asked by: Jason G

Expert Reply:

Since the braking power is still hydraulic, you should have no issues converting from a vacuum over hydraulic system to an electric over hydraulic system. The electric over hydraulic actuator will take the place of the vacuum that pressurized the existing brakes.

If your trailer has disc brakes, the # HBA16 actuator that you referenced is a great choice. If your trailer has drum brakes, you will want the Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Drum Brakes # HBA-10.

Often, trailers with vacuum over hydraulic brakes use brake likes that are 1/4 inch. If the brake lines on your trailer are currently 1/4 inch line, the Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator # HBA16 comes with an adapter fitting to work with 1/4 inch brake line. It is a good idea to check the brake lines to ensure they are still in good condition and do not show signs of rust. If the lines are rusted, you will want to replace them. I've attached a link to all of our brake line kits for you.

I have attached a help article on adding Electric Over Hydraulic Brakes to a Trailer for you. If your trailer doesn't have a breakaway kit, you will want to add one like # 20400. Additionally, if your vehicle is not wired for an electric brake controller, you will want to add one in order to signal the electric over hydraulic brakes.

My favorite brake controller to recommend is the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 # 90885. This electric brake controller is compatible with Electric Over Hydraulic actuators. I have attached a review video of this controller for you. If you would like to let me know what vehicle you will be towing your trailer with, I will be happy to see if we have a custom brake controller wiring adapter for your vehicle.