Could Disc Brake Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator be Used with Drum Brakes by Lowering Output
Updated 12/22/2025 | Published 10/09/2024
Question:
Is it possible to use a electric over hydraulic actuator with 1600psi on drum brakes but keep it on a lower setting to prevent blowing out the wheel cylinders?
asked by: Evan R
Expert Reply:
Hey Evan, that's a really valid question and the logic makes sense but in reality it would be way too easy for the disc brake pressure to accidentally go too high and cause the brakes to have issues. What it would seem like in use is that the brakes would seem basically impossible to dial in. It would either feel way to aggressive or like there's no braking power at all.
So if you have drum brakes you would want the part # HS381-9066 that you referenced.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Hydrastar Marine Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator w/ Breakaway and 7-Way RV Harness - 1,200 psi
- Brake Actuator
- Electric-Hydraulic Brake Actuator
- Boat Trailer
- Travel Trailer
- Drum Brakes
- Hydrastar
more information >
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Replacement for Swing Away Coupler/Actuator on MasterCraft Boat Trailer
- Q&A: Breakaway Battery Kit Needed for HydraStar Actuator on Triple Axle Trailer
- Q&A: Does Surge Brake Actuator Need To Be Disabled When Installing EOH Brakes?
- Article: Trailer Brakes Not Working? Troubleshooting Guide
- Q&A: Will the DeeMaxx Alpha G1600 Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator with 2017-22 GM Brake Controller?
- Q&A: If HydraStar Brake System # HBA16 Isnt Using Breakaway Switch Where Would Yellow Wire Go
- Q&A: Can Hydraulic Surge Brake Actuator be Locked Out for Electric Brake Conversion
- Q&A: Can a Bolt-On Surge Brake Actuator Replace a Weld-On Surge Brake Actuator
- Article: Hydraulic Trailer Brakes: How They Work & What to Buy
- Article: Adding Electric Over Hydraulic Disc Brakes
- Article: Trailer Lighting Requirements
- Article: Electric Trailer Brakes: How They Work & What to Buy
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: Trailer Drum Brakes vs. Disc Brakes: Making the Decision
Jameson C.
12/22/2025
Hey Evan, how did things work out with the Hydrastar 1,200 psi actuator for your drum brakes? Did it give you the braking feel you were hoping for? Your experience could point others in the right direction.