How To Convert Vacuum Over Hydraulic Trailer Brakes to Electric Over Hydraulic Trailer Brakes

Question:

Hello there. I am currently running a vacuum over hydraulic brake setup on a 1977 F350 and gooseneck. I have just updated to a 2015 Dual Cab Iveco Daily which has an electric brake system already installed by the previous owner. On the gooseneck/ trailer side of things do I need to change the axles or can I just install new hubs and electrics. I have been told by a local supplier in Australia that I have to change axles, hubs, the lot. Hope that is explained okay. Trying to work out which way to go for the best setup. Many thanks Lesley PS. Thank you for your great information on a previous email regarding going the other way and keeping my vacuum over hydraulic system.

asked by: Lesley

Expert Reply:

In order to convert the vacuum over hydraulic setup on your trailer to electric over hydraulic you will need an electric over hydraulic actuator, breakaway kit, and trailer wiring. The hubs you have now if operated by hydraulic pressure should not need to replaced as well unless they are too badly worn or there is something with a vacuum over hydraulic setup that I am not aware of which is possible as we do not deal with these types of brakes very often if at all. If you do end up needing to replace your hubs then please provide me with bearing numbers/measurements as well as your bolt pattern.

For an electric over hydraulic actuator, breakaway kit, and trailer wiring we have an excellent option for you in the HydraStar Marine Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator part # HS381-9067 for disc or part # HS381-9066 for drum which actually comes with all three of the above components. The only other thing you will need is a brake controller compatible with electric over hydraulic brakes for which I recommend using the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller part # 90885. The Prodigy P2 also has integrated safeguards and comes with a lifetime warranty.

expert reply by: Conner L