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The Hydrastar actuator delivers true electric over hydraulic control, giving you the smooth, proportional braking that drum setups need. With a maximum output pressure of 1,200 psi and a 12V DC power system, it reacts instantly to your in-cab brake controller. The electronic, proportional pressure valve keeps every stop steady and predictable, which means less jerking and better control on steep grades or long hauls.
The large 32 oz fluid capacity makes this actuator ideal for single-, tandem-, or triple-axle trailers that need a high brake-fluid volume. The translucent tank lets you check fluid levels fast without pulling the cap, and the built-in bleeder screw makes it simple to clear air from the lines. It’s a dependable setup for long brake runs or heavy trailers where smaller reservoirs just can’t keep up.
The Hydrastar’s extruded aluminum body holds up against corrosion and the kind of wear that comes from constant exposure to wet or salty conditions. It’s a solid choice for maintaining trailers that see marine environments or regular road grime. The durable build means fewer worries about rust or pitting over time.
Unlike standard surge couplers that rely on trailer push force to engage, this actuator responds the instant you hit the brakes in your tow vehicle. The faster response eliminates that lagging “push” feeling during stops and gives you direct braking control from your seat. You can even use your brake controller’s manual override to activate the trailer brakes whenever you need extra stability.
Because it’s electric over hydraulic, there’s no need to manually lock out the brakes when backing up. You can apply braking while reversing down ramps or inclines without interference or extra steps. It’s a cleaner, more controlled way to maneuver without fighting your trailer brakes.
Do not power wash the Hydrastar actuator or take it through a commercial car wash. High-pressure water may damage the seals on the actuator.
Videos are provided as a guide only. Refer to manufacturer installation instructions and specs for complete information.
Hello, everybody. This is Jeff at etrailer.com. Today we're gonna take a look at this Hydrastar electric over hydraulic actuator for drum brakes. Has a 32 ounce capacity and a 1,200 PSI output pressure. Now with this huge reservoir, this will hold a full quart of fluid. This actuator's perfect for your big multiaxial campers.
Application will work on single, tandem and triple axle trailers with drum brakes. As we mentioned, this is an electric over hydraulic brake actuator, so activates your trailer's hydraulic drum brakes when you apply the brakes in your tow vehicle. Now, brake controller is required to send the signal from the tow vehicle to the actuator when your brakes are applied. Brake controllers we do sell separately on our website. Also, a seven-way trailer connector is needed to transmit a signal from the brake controller.
This will give you improved functionality when compared with surge brake couplers. Gives you a lot faster response time 'cause your trailer brakes are triggered when you apply the brakes in your tow vehicle as opposed to when your trailer pushes against the hitch ball. And there's no need to manually lock out brakes when you back up. The trailer brakes can be intentionally activated when you reverse and the manual override that's on your brake controller can be activated so that you can engage the trailer brakes without having to apply your vehicle brakes. We mentioned this has a huge reservoir, which is great for trailers with long brake lines that need high volumes of brake fluid.
The fluid capacity on this actuator's 32 ounces. You notice up at the top here has this translucent tank that'll let you check the fluid level at a glance. It does require DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, which is not included. You would've to supply that. And it uses an electronic proportional pressure valve to ensure that the braking is smooth and effective.
Right up at the top here, you can see there's a built-in bleeder screw that'll let you easily flush air out of the brake lines. You can see right down here is where your brake lines will attach, and this is a durable extruder aluminum construction, provides corrosion resistance. This is compatible with any standard five amp power battery breakaway kit. And this unit will install on the trailer frame and connect to trailer's wiring and the hydraulic brake lines. The brake lines are sold separately. This part is made in the USA to specs. The power 12 volt DC, we mentioned maximum output pressure of 1,200 PSI. This is DOT, Department of Transportation, compliant. The wires. Has four wires. Your black is your 12 volt power, the blue is your brake controller, the yellow is your breakaway, and then the ground is for. or the white is for ground. Last thing is just the dimensions. The length of this including the mounting tabs, 11 3/4 inches long, width of it three inches wide. And the overall height from the bottom to the top of the cap here is 10 3/4 inches tall. But that should do it for a look at the Hydrastar electric over hydraulic actuator for drum brakes.
Ratings & Reviews
Scott K.
5/12/2021
Super!
Katrina B.
5/11/2023
It seems that the manufacturer prefers to handle all warranties. Lets get you their information via email.
Heather A.
10/9/2020
Thank you for your review. The Hydrastar Actuator will wire to the breakaway kit of the Kaufman trailer and the electric brake controller in the tow vehicle. I have attached an electrical diagram for a visual of how the wires attach. You should already have a brake controller for the electric brakes but if you have an OEM brake controller it will need to be replaced. I recommend the Prodigy P3 90195 which is one of our most popular brake controller options. If you need a breakaway kit, I recommend Hopkins engager break away kit part 20099 because of its convenient push to test button and built in charger.
Helpful Links
https:images.etrailer.comstaticimagespicsququ307376_800.jpg
James
4/12/2019
I am happy with the actuator and how well it is working
John B.
10/23/2013
Have Hydrastar HBA12 1200psiG7 on tandem boat trailer. Breakaway activates brakes well but brakes activated thru vehicle do not work.A check of power from vehicle to trailer indicates circuits are all good. Can hear contact noise from inside brake unit but pump doesnt start but thru breakaway activation the pump works well.Have been told the fault is in the Electronic Chip that activates the pump. Is this correct and if so can I purchase that part only? What part number do I order? Appreciate your reply. John B
Patrick B.
10/29/2013
Info for this part was:
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Frank C.
5/8/2022
Juste great, as new