How to Test The Hydrastar Actuator to Make Sure it is Operating Properly.

Published 02/21/2020

Question:

Is the actuator bad if it clicks when you directly connect the white white to negative and blue wire to positive

asked by: Spencer R

Expert Reply:

When testing the HydraStar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator part # HBA-10 it is a three pronged approach. The first step when no wires are connected to anything is to attach the white to ground and the black to 12V positive in this configuration the actuator should not operate if it does it needs replaced.

The second is to leave the white wire attached to negative and twist the black and blue together and connect to 12V positive once done it should run and pressurize. If it doesn't the unit needs replaced.

The third is to again keep the white wire on negative and connect the yellow or blue with white stripe wire (depends on when it was made) to the 12V positive once connected it should run and pressurize. If it doesn't it needs to be replaced.

I would also recommend double checking that your brake controller is compatible with an electric over hydraulic brake actuator and is on the list of approved controllers on the Cargobrake.com site. If you would rather let me know what controller you have I can check this for you.

One key tip: I have found when installing this is that the actuator must be grounded to the tow vehicle and trailer with no exception. It leads to issues with operation if that is not done.

expert reply by: Randy B