Exhaust Brake Problem

[rwilliams4]

I have a California '97 3500 (has EGR valve) and am having an awful time with my PacBrake. I had it installed about five years ago and it has never worked right. Previously I had a lighter (7,000 lbs. ) trailler, and just lived with the problem, but now I have upgraded to a 12,000 lb. GVW fifth wheel, and really need the extra braking. I have the EGR plugged and the brake seems to work, except the butterfly locks up all the time and I have to get out and pull the vaccuum line from the exhaust brake solenoid,until the butterfly opens. Then it seems to work for a while, util the same thing happens all over again. How about some help on this. I would sure appreciate it.

 

[Joe G.]

Try taking the little vacuum solenoid apart and cleaning it. This is a common problem. Since removing the hose releases the brake I would think that the brake is ok and the butterfly valve is not sticking. When you take the little valve apart to clean it you should have it on your work bench. The little spring (maybe some other stuff) can come out and get lost if you try to clean the valve with it still on the engine. It's a good idea to use the brake a lot to keep it from collecting a lot of exhaust carbon and the butterfly valve sticking.

 

[rwilliams4]

Cleaned Solenoid Valve

Joe (et al): I did clean the little solenoid valve with the exploded view from PacBrake. One time I did drop the little spacer, while I was cleaning it on the engine. I never did find it, but called PacBrake and they sent me a new one (with a bunch of other parts for the solenoid) They are really great people to deal with. I sent them a long e-mail, yesterday, about my brake problems, so they will probably call me or reply by e-mail soon. I might call them, also. I wish I was closer to their location; I'd like to take it up to them to repair. I'm thinking of removing the whole thing and start all over again with a Banks brake(they're relatively close to where I live). Thanks for the reply.