Troubleshooting Dexter Brake Actuator that Runs All the Time When Connected

Updated 02/28/2024 | Published 02/27/2024

Question:

When I test the K71-651 and connect the white wire to the negative post and the black wire to the positive post I cannot hear a click and the unit does not run. When testing the other wires everything is good. When I hook all wires up unit runs continuously without hooking to the truck Should I be able to hear an audible click when testing the black and white wire?

asked by: Bob B

Expert Reply:

Hey Bob, when just the power and ground is connected on a brake actuator like the Dexter DX part # K71-651 you won't hear the unit prime itself. It would do this once a connection to trailer brakes is made which would be the blue wire that runs to the trailer brakes.

If it's running continuously I would check to make sure the breakaway switch isn't pulled or wired up wrong.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Bob

2/28/2024

Will the K71-651 work on a 2003 Chevy 2500 with aftermarket brake control

Jameson C.

2/28/2024

@Bob Depending on the aftermarket brake controller yes. As long as the controller has a hydraulic mode like the P2 part # 90885 then yes it would work but not all aftermarket controllers have a hydraulic mode.