How It Works

Electronic Brake Systems

Electro-Hydraulic Pump Systems

 The Electronic / Hydraulic Actuator takes input from the standard in cab brake controller as a 0 to 12 volt input.  Hard wiring to the trailer enables power up and converts this signal into a variable hydraulic pressure output by a motor and pump assembly to effect the brake application. The brakes translate this pressure to a mechanical braking force in the trailer.

When in the released state the hydraulic fluid returns to the resevoir to be ready for the next brake application.

There is a 3 wire connection to the trailer – ground –power and control.  A fourth wire stays with the trailer for breakaway battery connection.  It is the towing unit that supplies power for the trailer brake system.  Running lights as needed in wireless systems are not a factor here.

The battery is used for breakaway function and is sized by the manufacturer to keep brakes applied for 15 minutes in this event. The breakaway switch provides a quick way to test your system----pull and the brakes will apply .

The in cab controllers are explained here controller types
The SensaBrake System is different in detail and is described here SensaBrake Operation
Some brake systems require  ¼  brake lines rather than the standard (3/16). Output adapters are available should this be necessary.