Will Existing Break Away Kit Work When Converting Electric Brakes To Hydraulic Disc Brakes

Updated 01/28/2014 | Published 01/26/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter DX Series Electric Over Hydraulic Brake Actuator for Disc Brakes - 1,600 psi

(123)

$993.89

Dexter Trailer Breakaway Kit with Charger and 9 Ah Battery - Top Load

(25)

$166.45

Question:

I am installing the above unit as part of a conversion from electric magnetic to hydraulic disc. I have an existing break away switch, and its wired directly to the two deep cycle trailer/house batteries. They, in turn, are charged while driving from the tow vehicle. I see the Dexter break away kit comes with its own battery, etc. Do I really need this for the break away switch to work properly with a hydraulic actuator or will my existing switch, properly wired and with batteries properly charged, work correctly? Thanks.

asked by: Mark F

Expert Reply:

The break away kit you have on your trailer should be fine if you have at least 9 amp/hour on your system, as this is what is required by the Dexter Brake Actuator, part # K71-651. It sounds as though you should be okay with two batteries hooked to your system now. If you are using the trailer connector for your batteries, they will only have the charge maintained, and will not increase the charge of the batteries. I have attached a link to our product page for battery chargers.

If your system does not meet the required power level, I recommend the Dexter Breakaway Kit, part # 34-285.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L