Dexter DX Series Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator Not Running Properly

Updated 06/22/2023 | Published 06/21/2023

Question:

Hello, I have a flatbed gooseneck that was sent to be painted and when I received it back the brakes are not working. It has the DX series electric/hydraulic brake actuator. When the factory truck brake controller Chevy Silverado is depressed, the actuator can be heard humming but when the trailer is in motion and the brake controller is depressed the trailer is providing no resistance even at maximum output. Do you have a troubleshooting guide or tips? Thanks

asked by: Carroll B

Expert Reply:

Thank you for your purchase from etrailer of the Dexter DX Series Electric Over Hydraulic Brake Actuator for Disc Brakes # K71-651. There is a troubleshooting guide in the manual, and gives the following steps:

1. With a fully charged breakaway battery and trailer plug disconnected, pull the breakaway switch on the trailer.
1. If the unit runs and builds pressure, the breakaway system is functioning properly.
2. If the unit runs and builds pressure when the breakaway switch is pulled but will not function under normal operating conditions, the problem mot likely is a defective in-cab controller or defective wiring between the tow vehicle and Dexter E/H actuator.
3. If the unit runs but will not build pressure when breakaway switch is pulled, the Dexter E/H unit may be defective.
4. If the unit does not run, measure the DC voltage between the white wire and the yellow wire. If the voltage is less than 12 volts, either the breakaway switch or the breakaway wiring is defective.

expert reply by: Kyle S