AL-KO IQ7 Brake Actuator – 355002E

AL-KO IQ7 Brake Actuator

The AL-KO IQ7 is an electric over hydraulic (EOH) brake actuator for boat trailers exceeding 2000kg ATM. Over recent years, the unit has become especially popular for larger boat trailers and premium off-road campers.

The AL-KO iQ7 has undergone extensive manufacturer testing focused on reliability and emergency stopping performance. Results demonstrate significant safety improvements compared to trailers without powered braking assistance.

Performance Test Results

In emergency braking tests using a vehicle towing a 2.2-tonne boat at 80 km/h:

• • AL-KO iQ7 Extreme: Achieved a stopping distance of 18 meters.
  • Standard AL-KO iQ7: Achieved a stopping distance of 22 meters.
  • Without Braking Assistance: Required 35 meters to stop.
  • Response Time: The system utilises a compressed air reservoir to eliminate “lag time,” achieving 0–1000 psi in approximately 0.29 seconds.

Reliability and Durability Testing

Cycle Testing: AL-KO completed over 220,000 cycle tests on the iQ7. This level of testing simulates roughly 42 trips per year over a 10-year period without component failures.

• Environmental Resilience: While water-resistant for normal conditions, testing indicates the unit is not waterproof and must not be submerged.

Operational Self-Tests

• Startup Test: When the ignition is turned on, the system performs an internal pressure check. An audible “fault signal” sounds for 30–40 seconds until working pressure is achieved.
• Breakaway Function: Tests confirm the system automatically locks the trailer brakes for at least 15 minutes if the trailer becomes detached from the tow vehicle.

Compatibility and Standards

• Legal Compliance: The iQ7 meets Australian and New Zealand requirements for trailers over 2 tonnes that require independent, power-assisted braking.
• Approved Controllers: As of 2026, compatibility is verified for several controllers, including:
• REDARC Tow-Pro Elite
• Tekonsha P3, Prodigy P2, and Primus IQ
• Hayes Energiser III

Installation & Maintenance

• Designed for hassle-free bleeding—see manual for instructions
• Recommended brake fluids: DOT 3 or DOT 4
• Must be installed by an authorised AL‑KO installer for 3‑year warranty coverage

AL-KO Warranty

• 3‑year manufacturer warranty (when professionally installed)

When you buy the Al-KO iQ7, you will receive:

• 1 x IQ7 brake actuator unit
• 1 x Anderson plug

Legal Requirements

Australian regulations require trailers over 2000kg ATM (2.0t) with hydraulic brakes to be fitted with an electric brake actuator and a breakaway kit. The unit features an in-built breakaway, removing the need to purchase a separate unit.

However, you will require a compatible electric brake controller (such as the Tekonsha Prodigy P3) to use this component. A list of other approved brake controllers is available in the “Specifications” tab.

For further braking requirements, please refer to Vehicle Standards Bulletin VSB1.

Finally, the AL-KO iQ7 shows ADR compliance through a Component Type Approval certificate (CTA-060284). Read more about what a component type approval (CTA) means to you here.

Which Brake Actuator is Better?

Couplemate™️ is a distributor of both the AL-KO iQ7 and the Hydrastar brake actuator units. We often get asked which one is better.

The best trailer brake actuator for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences, though this can be broken down into the following points:

• AL-KO IQ7: If you want something robust and straightforward, the IQ7 with an in-built breakaway kit.
• Hydrastar: For highly responsive braking performance, it is low-maintenance and user-serviceable.