Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Trailer Brake Actuator Making Clicking Noise.

Updated 07/16/2020 | Published 07/15/2020

Question:

6 years ago I purchased a HydraStar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator HBA-1600 and the HydraStar Adapter Module HBA-CAM for my Chevy Silverado built in brake controller. It has worked perfectly for the last 6 years. This year however, the actuator would sometimes randomly start clicking. Other times my truck would display Check trailer wiringinch and even worse not activate the brakes. Im trying to figure out what is now wrong with my system. An ohm meter between the trailer brake contact and ground shows very little resistance appears to be shorted to ground. Does this sound like an issue of the HBA-CAM adapter? Or is that normal? Any hints on what may be wrong would be greatly appreciated?

asked by: Robert V

Expert Reply:

The clicking noise you heard typically occurs when the factory brake controller isn't compatible with electric over hydraulic brake systems. Since everything worked fine up until recently, the problem most likely does lie with your # HBA-CAM. First, make sure the connections are sound. The unit should be wired up as shown in the linked video.

If that checks out, you'll need to replace the # HBA-CAM, or replace the factory brake controller with an aftermarket unit like the Tekonsha P3, part # 90195. You might need a wiring adapter depending on the model year of your Silverado, I've linked you to our fit guide which will help you determine which one you'd need. I've also linked to a help article that shows how to install an aftermarket brake controller on a Silverado that's equipped with a factory brake controller.

expert reply by: Mike L