Troubleshooting Hydrastar Actuator that Works Half the Time

Updated 06/26/2015 | Published 06/24/2015

Question:

My actuator works intermittently , when problem first started it worked 80 of the time now 50 of the time . I replaced electrical controller but didnt solve the problem when it works it does work great.When actuator wasnt working I checked electrical controller only to find the controller working fine. Suggestions appreciated, things I can check

asked by: Scotty H

Helpful Expert Reply:

It could be there is an electrical problem or a malfunction with the motor. You will want to make sure that the Hydrastar white ground wire is connected to the vehicle ground and not to the trailer. They are very particular about this ground connection and it must be connected to the vehicle ground.

To further test the unit, leave on the blue, black, white, and yellow (or blue with white stripe) wires. Make sure it is disconnected from any other wires going to the tow vehicle or breakaway system.

Use a separate 12 volt battery and connect the white wire directly to the negative terminal then connect the black wire to the positive terminal. The motor should NOT run at this time. If it does then there is a problem inside and it will need to be repaired by Carlisle.

Next leave the white wire connected to the negative terminal then connect the blue and black wires together to the positive terminal. The motor should now run and pressurize. If it does not, it will need to be repaired by Carlisle.

Then you can leave the white wire attached and connect only the yellow or blue wire with white stripe to the positive terminal. the motor should run and pressurize. If not, it needs to be repaired by Carlisle.

Finally it could be that your brake controller isn't designed for use with and EOH actuator. If it's not you would need to use a controller like the P2 # 90885 that is compatible with EOH actuators.

expert reply by: Chris O