Troubleshooting Electric Over Hydraulic Brakes Not Activating of Vehicle

Updated 04/29/2021 | Published 04/27/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Curt TriFlex NEXT Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(1022)

$141.95

Adapter Module for BrakeRite Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator - OE Ford, GM Brake Controllers

(86)

$145.15

Question:

I have a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 3500hd with ITBC that I understand will not see or control E/H brakes on a 2020 BigTex 25GN HD. I purchased a Dexter Electric/Hydraulic Actuator Adapter and now the truck shows Trailer Connected!inch but still did not actuate the hydraulic motor. I pulled the brake away pin and the motor ran and locked the brakes. Frustrated, I purchased a Curt Triflex Brake Controller and installed but still shows the trailer as not connected. I did not disconnect the ITBC which I am sure may be an issue but the motor still does not actuate. Please provide some wisdom!!!!

asked by: Ernest

Expert Reply:

It sounds like there may be an issue with the wiring in the trailer to the hydraulic brake actuator. When you installed the Adapter Module # DX35FR you did receive the trailer connected message.

I have attached the instructions for the Adapter Module that shows several different wiring schematics for the popular hydraulic actuators. If yours is not listed let me know and I will help you find the correct wiring.

It sounds like there may be issue with the power wire that is going into the actuator. If the breakaway sends power directly to the actuator to activate it through a separate wire this explains why it worked when you pulled the cable. And indicates that the ground connection is also good. It will also stand to reason why both your brake controllers have failed to activate the actuator.

expert reply by: Bud M