Auto slack adjusters (this is what is on the D's) are used to maintain proper brake chamber stroke and lining to drum clearance during normal operation. The entire slack adjuster operates as a unit rotating with the brake camshaft as brakes are applied or released. THE MOST EFFICIENT BRAKING OCCURS WHEN PUSH ROD TRAVEL IS HELD TO A MINIMUM.
Auto Slack Adjusters adjust themselves automatically during full brake applications to accomodate brake lining and drum wear. The key words here are FULL BRAKE APPLICATIONS. Have you ever engaged your brakes full... pedal to the floor... probably not many have. But there is way to do this properly to ensure you get your auto adjusters to work for you. If you have never fully depressed this pedal it is likely that your auto adjust system has not been fully activating its full adjustment potential. DO NOT RUN OUT AND DO IT NOW... DO THE FOLLOWING FULL PROCEDURE TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF YOUR BRAKING SYSTEM AND THAT YOU DO NOT DAMAGE IT.
Following is a procedure that should be done every day before you start your drive. Certainly, it should be done if your unit has been sitting for a time without use. This will tell you if your air brake system is functioning satisfactorily and will also adjust your slack adjusters.
End of Test
-----Submitted by Bob Cook, with thanks to Ron Nagle
The DISCOVERY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC, was formed to promote the sharing of information and the camaraderie of fellow Discovery motorhome owners. Membership in the club is limited to owners of Fleetwood Discovery motorhomes.