When it comes to towing your trailer, it is essential that your trailer brakes are working correctly. One of the best ways of achieving this is by installing electric over hydraulic trailer brakes. This braking system combines the benefits of electric and hydraulic trailer brakes, providing improved stopping power and increased reliability. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at electric over hydraulic trailer brakes wiring diagrams, how they work, and the benefits of this system.
Understanding Electric Over Hydraulic Trailer Brakes
Electric over hydraulic trailer brakes are a braking system that combines the power of electric brakes and the convenience of hydraulic brakes. This system is made up of two main components: an electric brake controller and a hydraulic actuator. The electric brake controller senses when the towing vehicle is braking and sends a signal to the hydraulic actuator, which then applies the trailer brakes.
The electric over hydraulic trailer brake system operates on a closed hydraulic system, which means that the brake fluid is not open to the atmosphere. This ensures that the brake fluid stays clean, and there is no risk of air getting into the system. This results in a more reliable and consistent braking performance.
The Components of the Electric Over Hydraulic Trailer Brake System
The electric over hydraulic trailer brake system comprises several components that work together to provide reliable and efficient braking. The main components of this system are the electric brake controller, the hydraulic actuator, the brake lines, and the brake calipers.
Electric Brake Controller
The electric brake controller is the device that sends the signal to the hydraulic actuator to apply the trailer brakes. The controller is usually installed inside the towing vehicle’s cab and is connected to the brake pedal.
Hydraulic Actuator
The hydraulic actuator is mounted on the trailer tongue and is responsible for applying the brakes when the electric brake controller sends a signal. When the brake pedal is pressed, the electric brake controller sends a signal to the hydraulic actuator, which then pushes brake fluid through the brake lines to apply the trailer brakes.
Brake Lines
The brake lines are responsible for transmitting the brake fluid from the hydraulic actuator to the brake calipers. They are usually made of steel or flexible rubber and must be compatible with brake fluid.
Brake Calipers
The brake calipers are the components that apply pressure to the brake pads, which then press against the trailer’s brake rotors or drums to stop the trailer.
Electric Over Hydraulic Trailer Brakes Wiring Diagram
The electric over hydraulic trailer braking system uses a standard 7-way RV blade style trailer connector for the brakes. The wiring diagram for this system is relatively simple and comprises of the following circuits:
The Brake Control Circuit
The brake control circuit is responsible for sending the signal from the brake controller to the hydraulic actuator. This circuit consists of four wires: the brake output wire, the ground wire, the battery wire, and the brake input wire.
Brake Output wire
The brake output wire is usually blue and connects the brake controller to the hydraulic actuator. When the brake controller signals the hydraulic actuator to apply the brakes, the output wire sends an electrical signal that activates the actuator.
Ground wire
The ground wire is a black wire that provides a path for the electrical current to flow back to the battery, completing the circuit.
Battery wire
The battery wire is a 12-volt wire that provides power to the brake controller. It is usually red and must be connected to a 12-volt power source.
Brake Input wire
The brake input wire is a wire that connects the brake controller to the vehicle’s brake light switch. This wire signals the brake controller when the vehicle’s brakes are being applied.
The Hydraulic Brake Circuit
The hydraulic brake circuit is responsible for transmitting the brake fluid from the hydraulic actuator to the brake calipers. This circuit consists of two wires: the brake actuator wire and the ground wire.
Brake Actuator wire
The brake actuator wire connects the hydraulic actuator to the brake calipers. When the hydraulic actuator receives a signal from the brake controller, it applies pressure to the brake fluid, which then moves through the brake lines and into the brake calipers.
Ground wire
The ground wire is a black wire that provides an electrical path for the circuit.
Advantages of Electric Over Hydraulic Trailer Brakes
Electric over hydraulic trailer brakes offer several advantages over other types of trailer brakes. Some of the benefits of this braking system include:
Superior Braking Power
Electric over hydraulic trailer brakes provide superior stopping power compared to other types of trailer brakes. This is because the hydraulic actuator applies pressure directly to the brake fluid, which then applies pressure to the brake calipers. This results in a more powerful and consistent braking performance.
Reduced Brake Fade
Electric over hydraulic trailer brakes are less prone to brake fade, which occurs when the brake pads or shoes become too hot and lose their effectiveness. This is because the hydraulic actuator applies the pressure evenly to all the brake calipers, which helps to prevent overheating.
Increased Reliability
Electric over hydraulic trailer brakes are more reliable than other types of trailer brakes. This is because the closed hydraulic system prevents air and moisture from entering the brake lines, which can cause corrosion and reduce the brakes’ effectiveness.
FAQs
1. Can I install electric over hydraulic trailer brakes myself?
Yes, you can install electric over hydraulic trailer brakes yourself if you are mechanically inclined and have the necessary tools. However, it is recommended that you have the brakes installed by a professional installer for safety reasons.
2. Do electric over hydraulic trailer brakes require maintenance?
Yes, electric over hydraulic trailer brakes require regular maintenance to keep them in good working order. This includes inspecting the brake pads and shoes, checking the brake fluid level, and flushing the brake fluid.
3. How do I know if my electric over hydraulic trailer brakes are working correctly?
You can check if your electric over hydraulic trailer brakes are working correctly by performing a brake test. This involves driving the towing vehicle and trailer to a quiet area and applying the brakes. You should feel the trailer brakes activate and slow the trailer down.
4. How do I adjust the brake controller settings for my electric over hydraulic trailer brakes?
The brake controller settings for electric over hydraulic trailer brakes can be adjusted using the controller’s menu. This allows you to adjust the brake force, delay, and boost settings to suit your towing requirements.
5. Can I use electric over hydraulic trailer brakes on any trailer?
Electric over hydraulic trailer brakes can be used on most types of trailers that require brakes. However, it is recommended that you check with your local transport authority to ensure that electric over hydraulic trailer brakes are legal in your state or country.
Conclusion
Electric over hydraulic trailer brakes are an excellent choice for anyone looking for reliable and efficient trailer braking systems. The wiring diagram for these brakes is relatively simple, and they offer several advantages over other trailer braking systems. With regular maintenance and proper installation, electric over hydraulic trailer brakes will provide you with a safe and reliable towing experience for years to come.
