Which Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator is Best for Trailer Brakes

Published 10/15/2015

Question:

Im converting my tandem axel boat trailer with 6000lb axels to 12inch Kodiak disc brakes and an electric over hydraulic system. What is the best overall actuator to use, Titan, Dexter or Carlisle? I noticed the Titan has max PSI of 1500 vs 1600 for the other two.

asked by: Lamar J

Expert Reply:

We prefer the Hydrastar Actuator part # HBA16 as it is the most reliable and works the best. Rarely do we ever get emails or calls for help troubleshooting problems with this actuator and is the one our installers like the most so I would recommend it highly.

You will need a brake controller installed in the tow vehicle that is compatible with this style of trailer brakes. The controller will put out a varying amount of voltage to the actuator which will then build the appropriate amount of braking pressure.

For a brake controller I would recommend the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller part # 90885. This is our best selling brake controller because of how well it works and how easy it is to setup. This is a proportional brake controller that senses the amount of braking the tow vehicle is applying and applies a proportionate amount to the trailer brakes.

expert reply by: Jameson C