Abstract: For engaging and disengaging a permanent-magnet slipper brake for a rail vehicle there are required relatively high forces which are generated either by a hydraulic motor or an electric motor. Therefore, in rail vehicles without external electric or external hydraulic connections and comprising a pneumatic brake line or brake-pressure lead, there is incorporated a pneumatically driven hydraulic power pump by means of which a hydraulic motor can be driven. This hydraulic motor is then capable of applying the forces required for engaging and disengaging the permanent-magnet slipper brake. The engaging and disengaging process is preferably controlled by a main air line.