Troubleshooting Brakes Sticking With Dexter DX Series Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator K71-650

Updated 03/26/2021 | Published 03/25/2021

Question:

My e/h 1600 brake control is sticking or the brakes remain engaged for several seconds after I release the brake pedal. I’ve had and used it for 2 years with out any issues. The problem is the same with my Dodge truck and my Freightliner RV. It’s full of fluid and I put new pads on the trailer thinking that could be the issue but it’s still the same. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

asked by: Jim C

Expert Reply:

I am sorry to hear you are having an issue with your Dexter DX Series Electric Over Hydraulic Brake Actuator for Drum Brakes - 1,000 psi # K71-650.

When I reached out to Dexter and they had a few thoughts.

First is to make sure that the drum brakes are adjusted properly as incorrectly adjusted brakes can cause the # K71-650 to not work as quickly as designed. I included a link to a help article that goes over adjusting the brakes for you to take a look at.

Second is to bleed the brakes on your trailer to make sure there is not something stuck in the system causing the pressure to not release quickly.

To do this you it is easiest to have a buddy help, and most importantly make sure that the reservoir does not run out of fluid.

Starting with the wheel furthest from the actuator install plastic tubing over the bleeding screw on the drum assembly and loosen one half turn.

Activate the # K71-650, turn on the ignition on your vehicle, and use the manual override lever to activate the brakes. Do this until you do not see any air bubbles or only see clear fluid coming out of the hose.

Retighten the bleeder screw and move on to the next furthest wheel.

I included a video of the # K71-650 for you to take a look at.