Wiktor Wise
Electric over hydraulic brakes are a type of braking system used in automotive and trailer brake systems. They combine the control of electric braking systems with the stopping power of hydraulic brakes, making them a robust option for trailers frequently used in demanding conditions. This system eliminates many of the common issues associated with traditional electric brakes, such as reduced stopping power and increased maintenance costs, making them a superior choice for heavy-duty use. Electric over hydraulic brakes offer enhanced control, improved compatibility, and increased safety, making them a popular choice for many RV owners.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type | Electric over hydraulic brakes |
| Use | Used in towing applications, such as trailers and recreational vehicles (RVs) |
| Function | Control the application of hydraulic brakes using an electric signal |
| Components | Brake Control, Brake Actuator, Disc Brake Assembly |
| Benefits | Enhanced control, improved safety, stronger stopping power, ease of maintenance, compatibility with various trailer types |
| Cost | Upgrading to an electric over hydraulic system might cost around $1,600 more than a traditional electric brake system |
| Installation | Requires wiring the Brake Control into the truck, connecting the Brake Actuator to the trailer, and installing high-pressure lines to the Disc Brake Assembly |
| Brands | Kodiak, Hydrastar, Prodigy, Dexter, Lippert |
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What You'll Learn
Electric over hydraulic brakes provides stronger stopping power
Electric over hydraulic brakes provide stronger stopping power compared to regular electric brakes. This braking system combines the control of electric braking systems with the superior stopping power of hydraulic brakes. This makes electric over hydraulic brakes a robust option for trailers used in demanding conditions.
Electric over hydraulic brakes use hydraulic brake fluid, similar to what is found in cars, enhancing the overall braking efficiency. The truck sends a signal to the brake booster, which then activates the brake pump to stop the trailer. On axles equipped with disc brakes, everything is visible and easily accessible, and maintenance becomes straightforward. The calipers and brake pads are easy to inspect and replace, and bleeding the system is simple if air gets into the lines.
The automotive industry has made huge advancements in stopping distances, but not so in the trailer industry, according to Ronald Russel, president of Performance Trailer Braking. “We are still generating 1920s braking pressure with electric drum brakes generating 500 to 600 pounds of pressure,” says Russel. Hydraulic disc brakes, on the other hand, can generate 1500 to 1800 pounds of braking pressure.
Electric over hydraulic brakes, although more expensive upfront, offer better performance, reliability, and lower long-term costs. For those in the hotshot trucking industry or anyone using their trailers extensively, electric over hydraulic brakes are a worthy investment.
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They are more expensive upfront but offer long-term savings
Electric-over-hydraulic brakes are more expensive upfront but can offer substantial long-term savings. While electric brakes are initially cheaper, they may end up costing more in the long run due to maintenance issues, frequent replacements, and Department of Transportation (DOT) concerns.
Upgrading from a 10,000-pound electric brake axle to an electric-over-hydraulic system can cost around $1,600 more. However, this difference can be offset by reduced maintenance costs. For example, the Dexter electric-over-hydraulic disc brake axle has a 12,000-pound capacity and features visible calipers and easily inspectable brake pads, making maintenance a breeze.
Electric-over-hydraulic brakes offer better performance and reliability, and safety. They provide stronger braking power, making them ideal for heavy loads. This is especially important for those in the hotshot trucking industry or anyone using their trailers extensively. With a smoother brake application, higher pressure with less amperage, and reduced strain on the system, electric-over-hydraulic brakes enhance driver confidence.
Additionally, electric-over-hydraulic brakes offer proportional braking control, ensuring balanced braking between the tow vehicle and the trailer. This prevents unequal braking, reduces the risk of jackknifing, and minimizes trailer sway or lane departure. As a result, electric-over-hydraulic brakes can provide a safer towing experience.
In summary, while electric-over-hydraulic brakes have a higher upfront cost, they offer improved performance, reliability, and safety, as well as reduced maintenance costs over the long term. For individuals who use their trailers frequently or for heavy-duty applications, electric-over-hydraulic brakes can be a worthy investment.
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Electric over hydraulic brakes are more robust for heavy-duty use
Electric over hydraulic brakes combines the control of electric braking systems with the stopping power of hydraulic brakes, making them a robust option for trailers used in demanding conditions. They are a superior choice for heavy-duty use.
Electric over hydraulic brakes offers significant advantages, making them the preferred choice for many heavy-duty towing applications and customers who use their trailers daily. One of the biggest advantages of hydraulic brakes is their superior stopping power compared to standard electric brakes. They provide a stronger braking force, making them ideal for heavy loads.
Electric brakes rely on an electromagnet to activate the brake pads. Over time, the constant movement and road debris can wear down the magnet and the attached wires, leading to faults and the need for replacements. This makes them less robust for heavy-duty use.
On the other hand, electric over hydraulic brakes provide a much stronger stopping power. This system uses hydraulic brake fluid, similar to what is found in cars, enhancing the overall braking efficiency. The truck sends a signal to the brake booster, which then activates the brake pump to stop the trailer. This system also eliminates many of the common issues associated with traditional electric brakes.
While electric over hydraulic brakes are more expensive upfront, the long-term savings can be substantial due to reduced maintenance costs. Additionally, the hydraulic lines are well-routed, combining hard steel lines with flexible rubber lines to accommodate suspension movement, making maintenance a breeze.
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They are compatible with various trailer types
Electric over hydraulic brakes is a system that combines the control of electric braking systems with the stopping power of hydraulic brakes. They are a robust option for trailers used in demanding conditions and are compatible with various trailer types, including utility trailers, boat trailers, livestock trailers, horse trailers, and fifth-wheel RVs.
Electric over hydraulic brakes provide much stronger stopping power compared to regular electric brakes. This is because they use hydraulic brake fluid, similar to what is found in cars, enhancing the overall braking efficiency. The increased stopping power makes them ideal for heavier trailers, such as those used for horses, boats, and fifth-wheel RVs.
The compatibility of electric over hydraulic brakes with various trailer types is a significant advantage. For example, Kodiak hydraulic disc brake assemblies are popular in the horse trailer industry, especially for larger trailers that carry multiple horses and have living quarters. These brakes can withstand the corrosive effects of saltwater and are designed to handle the challenges of saltwater boat trailers.
Additionally, electric over hydraulic brakes offer enhanced control and adjustability. They provide better control over the trailer's braking force, allowing for smoother and more responsive braking. Many electric brake controllers allow adjustments to suit different towing conditions and preferences, making them versatile for various trailer types.
The safety of electric over hydraulic brakes is also improved compared to traditional mechanical systems. They reduce the risk of trailer sway and enable more effective braking, making them suitable for a wide range of trailer types and ensuring a safer towing experience.
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Electric over hydraulic brakes are safer
Electric over hydraulic brakes are a robust option for trailers, especially those used in demanding conditions. They combine the control of electric braking systems with the superior stopping power of hydraulic brakes, making them ideal for heavy-duty use.
Electric over hydraulic brakes offers several safety advantages over traditional electric brakes. Firstly, they provide much stronger braking power, making them well-suited for heavy loads. Hydraulic brakes use hydraulic brake fluid, similar to those in cars, to enhance overall braking efficiency. This results in a smoother and more controlled deceleration, reducing the risk of abrupt or jerky stops.
Secondly, electric over hydraulic brakes have fewer electrical connections at the hubs, reducing potential issues caused by debris and corrosion. The electrical connections stop at the brake booster, minimising the risk of electrical faults, which can impact the safety and reliability of the trailer on the road.
Additionally, hydraulic brakes are more consistent in their performance over time. The sealed system ensures that the hydraulic fluid remains clean and unaffected by external factors such as dirt, water, or weather conditions. This results in reliable braking performance in all conditions, enhancing overall driving safety.
While electric over hydraulic brakes may have a higher upfront cost, the long-term savings can be significant due to reduced maintenance requirements. Upgrading to an electric over hydraulic system can provide substantial benefits, including enhanced safety, smoother braking, and reduced maintenance costs.
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Frequently asked questions
Electric-over-hydraulic brakes combine the control of electric braking systems with the stopping power of hydraulic brakes, making them a robust option for trailers used in demanding conditions.
Electric-over-hydraulic brakes offer enhanced control, compatibility with various trailer types, improved safety, adjustability, and increased towing capacity. They also provide much stronger stopping power compared to regular electric brakes.
Electric-over-hydraulic brakes use hydraulic brake fluid to enhance braking efficiency. The truck sends a signal to the brake booster, which activates the brake pump to stop the trailer.
Popular options for electric-over-hydraulic brakes for RVs include Kodiak, Hydrastar, Prodigy, and Dexter Axle.
The installation process for electric-over-hydraulic brakes involves wiring the brake control into the truck, wiring the brake actuator into the trailer connector, and installing high-pressure lines between the actuator and disc brake assembly on each wheel.
