2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Pacbrake Frozen - cylinder bench test?

[ekroman]

I was under the hood of my 1995, which I picked up a few years ago, and I've never sorted out the Pacbrake. I've never towed with it, so I had no reason to even think about it.



I tried to test the Pacbrake to see if it works, and it appears to be frozen in the open position. I can grasp the "lever" which is sticking out, and the cylinder / piston doesn't move. I've also tried turning it on and off with the motor running; again, nothing.



There is power to the system.



Is there a bench test for the cylinder itself? I have a Mity Vac, I was thinking of unhooking the vacuum lines and seeing if it would pull the valve closed.



Thoughts?



Eddie

 

[Joe G.]

If the brake is not used the butterfly valve can carbon up and stick. If you use it all the time then that won't happen. You have to take it off and clean up the butterfly valve. If that does not fix it, then you may have a cylinder problem or a vacuum solenoid problem. If you don't have a way to lockup the torque convertor when the throttle is at idle (coasting) then the exhaust brake is useless on your '95.

 

[Diesel Gunner]

If your going to take it apart make the call and get the 4oz bottle of Pacbbrake Exhaust Brake Maintenance Synthetic Lubricant. It will last you about 1000 years and don't listen to the "Warranty Guy" at Pacbrake. He only wants to sell you another unit.



Cleaned and lubricated mine and it works fine. Just wish I could remember who I bought the lube from. He is a member and was plenty of help. I think he is around Seatle some place. Someone here might know

 

[MMerlino]

When it comes to exhaust breaks there is a saying "no use is abuse. The above guys gave good advice. You will have to remove the brake and clean it out. Then you must use it or you will soon be in the same position as you are now. Cleaning it is not rocket science. Hope all goes well with your project...

 

[AABEN]

They have A lube for the pacbrake that you need to use about very 6 month.

 

[Pacbrake]

Well guy's I am the warranty guy for Pacbrake thanks for the “don't listen to the warranty guy crack” lol. The best thing to do is remove the brake and clean it in a brake cleaner then lube it with some antiseize, once this is done use the brake right away and try and get it good and hot. If the brake continues to seize, you will have no choice but to replace it. If you want full dismantling instructions and how to reset the butterfly feel free to pm me.

 

[ed9824v]

Well guy’s I am the warranty guy for Pacbrake thanks for the “don’t listen to the warranty guy crack” lol. The best thing to do is remove the brake and clean it in a brake cleaner then lube it with some antiseize, once this is done use the brake right away and try and get it good and hot. If the brake continues to seize, you will have no choice but to replace it. If you want full dismantling instructions and how to reset the butterfly feel free to pm me.

I called pacbrake on my new used truck with non functioning unit and they were great helpfull showed me the site for the installation guide and how to fix the vacuum solenoid all worked great and did not try to sell me anything Ed