brake pressure

[02WINDSOR]

I have a 2002 Windsor 40' pwd. It takes an extreme amount of pedal pressure to stop. Had a trucker buddy drive it, he said it was awful. anybody have any ideas?

[RickT]

Four common things I know could cause that:
Brake shoes badly glazed or burned.

Brakes only working on 1 axle, front or rear. Caused by a pinched or plugged air line, or a relay valve not working on 1 axle.

The brakes badly out of adjustment. When I worked as truck mechanic many times a driver would complain of no brakes, upon checking them, he had adjusted them the wrong way (backing them off) on 1 or more wheels.

S cams or other parts at the axle rusted and stuck, needing lubed.

Rick

[walt2137]

To knock one of the possibilities do the brake test and the auto adjusters will adjust automatically, it should be done pretty often anyway.
Good info Rick T

[Barlow46]

Take a look at this link and see if it helps. If your knowledge base is limited, I would get it to a shop that can make sure it is safe. (if you have enough brake to go a short distance) Bus Nut Online - Articles Of Interest - Air Brakes / Air Systems - by George Myers

[walt2137]

Good info Barlo here is another doc that might make easier to run the test, I cant tell where the file was posted or no.

[Barlow46]

Quote:

Originally Posted by walt2137 Good info Barlo here is another doc that might make easier to run the test, I cant tell where the file was posted or no.

Not seeing anything Walt.

[FDchief]

To easily check your slack adjustment, when coming to a stop, traveling less than 5 mph, apply the maxi or parking brake. Your rig should come to a smooth deliberate stop. If not, it probably means that your slack adjusters need to be looked at. Even though they are suppose to be "self-adjusting", you must forcefully apply the brakes to often achieve the adjustment. It doesn't always just happen.