2007 Airstream disc brakes - 2012 Ford S/D controller

[ADCSRET]

Spoke with the customer service rep (Randy) at Airstream today. He said that my Airstream has "Active" (something) Hydraulic disc brake system will not communicate with the factory Ford controller. He did mention that replacing the module/pump assembly with a new Dexter hydraulic unit would resolve the issue. This is a $750.00 component. I am looking for anyone that has another idea, or can tell me the dexter unit will really do the trick. The Ford dealer isn't sure what reaction the message center will have if I disable the factory system and install an after market brake controller, what a mess. Any ideas would really be appreciated. I really don't know which way to turn.

[GCinSC2]

ADCSRET,

I think your trailer is now subject to 2 Airstream recalls for the brakes. The Actibrake actuator has potential internal fatal leaking and they just announced that the brake hoses are too short. Both are detailed in the running gear forum section.

As far as the controller, I don't have a Ford, not sure what is possible but I do have a 2007 30' with hydraulic brakes and I am using the Maxbrake controller. Darn fine combination.

I'd look at the recall status first, then see what is next.

Good luck.

Gary

[dznf0g]

Not all the Actibrakes were recalled. There were two different models. My 2007 was NOT involved in the recall.

[slowmover]

I'd look on the FORD vehicle forums. And at RV.net. Do some searches, IOW.

[Inland RV Center, In]

Actibrake has been sold.

The new company took steps to correct any possible problem.

Basically, the Actibrake is the same, as before, but with corrections.

I am out of the country and will post the new name tomorrow.

Feedback to us, is that the Dexter actuator has some issues.

Andy

[overlander63]

How long have you had the truck and trailer? Have the brakes and brake controller ever worked together?
If they have not, A workaround we have done to make the truck recognize the trailer brakes is to wire a pair of brake magnets into the brake wiring to fool the controller.
If the truck has worked before, you don't have this problem.

[ADCSRET]

Originally Posted by overlander63

How long have you had the truck and trailer? Have the brakes and brake controller ever worked together?
If they have not, A workaround we have done to make the truck recognize the trailer brakes is to wire a pair of brake magnets into the brake wiring to fool the controller.
If the truck has worked before, you don't have this problem.

This ia a new combination. We are original owners of the Airstream. and have just purchased the new truck. The ITBC works perfect on my electric braked utility trailer, just not on the ActiBrake System of the Aircstream. Thanks for your input.

[ADCSRET]

Originally Posted by Inland RV Center, In

Actibrake has been sold.

The new company took steps to correct any possible problem.

Basically, the Actibrake is the same, as before, but with corrections.

I am out of the country and will post the new name tomorrow.

Feedback to us, is that the Dexter actuator has some issues.

Andy

Thanks Andy, I look forward to getting the new name!

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by ADCSRET

Thanks Andy, I look forward to getting the new name!

The company that bought Actibrake, and then improved the design, is;

Cargo Towing Solutions.

So far, no problems.

Andy

[ADCSRET]

Thanks Andy,

I will check it out.

[monkeypants]

Sometime this winter I'll be heading up to Colonial to get the recall work done. While there, I'll also have the boys figure out how to make my after market brake controller play nice with the brakes, as I found out early on that the gm's integrated brake controller doesn't talk to my hydralic brakes. I'll write again when I get answers.

[AtomicNo13]

I am using the Carlisle Hydrastar after the Actibrake failed. No problems, I really like it, and it works with everything.

[ADCSRET]

I want to say thankyou to all who helped me, and believe me, it was a huge help! After reading the inputs and doing more legwork, I decided on replacing the ACTIBRAKE unit with a DEXTER E/H 1600. It was a straightforward and easy replacement, and now everything is working as it should...plus I think I have even more brake now too. I still have to have the brake hose recall complied with, but at least now I can tow it to the dealership. Thanks again ansd Merry Christmas!
Jeff and Flo Turner

[CloudDancing]

I'm glad to hear you got your problem resolved.
In our case, we bought a used 2007 27FB Classic from a dealer and when he hooked it up to our 2010 F250 truck, the original controller failed. Airstream replaced it with a Dexter as part of the previously mentioned recall. When we traded in this truck for a 2012 F150 Echo-boost, we hooked up the trailer and it has worked fine as well. We had the second recall performed last week and I highly encourage you having this done ASAP.
The Airstream installed lines a-braid against the frame and in our case with 22K + miles, there were deep grooves worn in the rubber