Minimum Voltage Required for Braking Using the Titan BrakeRite for Electric Over Hydraulic Brakes

Updated 06/08/2020 | Published 07/28/2012

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter BrakeRite II Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator Kit - Vented - 1,500 psi

(36)

$1232.09

Dexter BrakeRite SD Adapter for Ford/Chevy Integral Brake Controllers

(25)

$188.10

Question:

I have a Dexter hydraulic acutator now on a Airstream classic and I am using it with the 2013 2500HD GMC. I am aware that the Dexter EH 1600 requires 3 volts to start I am wondering what Trigger voltage does the Brake RIte require. What I am finding on the new truck is that it downshifts and slows very effectively with very little braking making it impossible to get to the 3 volts without aggressive use of the tow vehicle brakes. So I need an actuator that has a lower trigger voltage so that I can get a little lead or at least simultaneous braking. This situation is aggravated by my Hensley hitch that appears to be bumping me at times. Actibrake died then Dexter trigger voltage to high then ?? Thanks

asked by: Michael

Expert Reply:

The issue that you may be experiencing is compatibility problems between the truck and the actuator if the truck has a factory integrated brake controller. First, the minimum voltage to start braking with the BrakeRite, # T4813102, is 10.4 volts.

The real issue is most likely compatibility between the actuator and integrated controller. What you can do is use the BrakeRite, # T4813102, and then use a special adapter, #T4845900, to make the factory integrated controller compatible with the BrakeRite.

expert reply by: Michael H

Charles H.

12/8/2012

I have the same issue with one of my flatbed trailers 26 that has a Dexter actuator. It wont start pumping until 3.5 volts on my Prodigy controller. essentially meaning the trailer brakes never function unless my truck is in panic a panic brake. But, I have a Gooseneck 28 flatbed with a Brakerite actuator and it starts pumping at 0.2 volts and works perfectly with the Prodigy controller. Ill let you know how the new Brakerite unit works or if the one I have on the Gooseneck trailer is just a fluke, soon. Im betting the new Brakerite unit fixes the issue.

Patrick B.

12/11/2012

Keep in mind, the power settings can be adjusted from the Prodigy to supply more power to that actuator. Keep us informed, its always good for us to get more info on electric over hydraulic as it is not as common as a full electric or full hydraulic setup.

Brian E.

5/31/2020

Same here. Dexter unit seems to not wake up till harsh brake then slams up to high pressure. Prodidgy P3 controller, tried EOH and Elec settings both, no difference. Troubleshooting actuator shows its working to Dexter specs. Result is Dexter simply doesn't make products as nice as their competition does.

Chris R.

6/3/2020

Have you tried increasing the settings on the Prodigy P3 controller? Try going up to a higher boost setting to see if this helps at all.

Brian E.

6/3/2020

@ChrisR I have tried all various boost levels, and it makes a difference as to when the controller ramps up as to leading the tow vehicle per say. But you can watch the progressive voltage output and you crack 3 volts and bam into the steering wheel and locked brakes with axle hop. Its seriously unsafe at times. I just ordered brake pressure gauges to really test how progressive the fluid psi output is against voltage. I suspect little to none. You can test this in a shop setting non moving this way.

Brian E.

6/8/2020

@BrianE My trailer has about 40ft of brake line. This will affect pressure readings a little. At 3.0 volt the units comes on and on my setup hits 800psi. It then jumps in few stages pressure wise as voltage goes up to 12 volts maxing pressure out at 1450 psi. I weigh empty trailer alone at 8800lbs. This 800 psi is a harsh lockup of brakes, at the lowest possible setting. An automotive brakes, 800psi is also a brake lockup and low end panic stop. A typical medium stop is in the 350-400 psi range. Dexter needs a redesign. Its a poor functioning unit. Background: 27 years in automotive chassis and brake design. I fixed mine with pressure reduction valves, but i cant tell others to do the same.