Troubleshooting Electric-Over-Hydraulic Brakes On Horse Trailer

Published 09/18/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes - 1,600 psi

(243)

$951.13

Dexter DX Series Electric Over Hydraulic Brake Actuator for Drum Brakes - 1,000 psi

(35)

$994.94

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

(123)

$966.94

Question:

Hi I Have A Forty Foot Horse traIler With Electric Over Hydraulic And I Have Prodogy Controller. 2000 Volvo Pulling It. When I Step On The Brakes You Can Here The Box On the trailer Come On but My Brakes DonT Come On. Sometimes They Work If You ManualY Pull Them. Any I deals

asked by: Sara

Expert Reply:

There could be any number of things causing the intermittent braking you are experiencing. I have attached a helpful article that explains troubleshooting for brake controller installations. If you have the first generation of the Prodigy, it is not compatible with electric-over-hydraulic brakes. The P2, part # 90885, or P3, part # 90195, are both compatible with EOH systems.

Since you said you can hear the box(actuator) on the trailer come on when you press the brake pedal, it sounds like you may have an actuator that is causing the problem, but to be certain you will want to check with the manufacturer of the actuator and ask about troubleshooting. Many times there is a protective shroud over the actuator and when removed, you can normally find the make and model.

You will want to check your wiring connectors to make sure there are no obvious signs of damage, or if they have become loose. Also check for any signs of corrosion and make sure the ground wires have been secured to a clean bare metal surface.

If you find you need a new actuator for your trailer and you have disc brakes, you can check out part # K71-651.

For a drum brake system, you can take a look at part # K71-650.

If you complete all of your troubleshooting and find that the brake controller needs to be replaced, I recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 brake controller, part # 90195. This is one of our most popular because it is easy to install and operate.