Community Forums

CAlifnuby · 03-29-2009, 09:06 PM

aas947@sbcglobal.netI recently purchased a Used 2000 Winnebago 33v Brave Class A motor home, with the Workhorse Chassis. Only has 23,000 miles on it. My problem is the Motorhome will slow down, but it wont stop. Not trying to be funny, and ABS issues aside, when you press as hard as you can on the brakes at any speed, the best you can expect is to gradualy slow down, as far as a panic stop, forget it, the unit has 4 wheel disk brakes, but as far as a panic or emergency stop, not gonna happen. I am well versed on anti lock brake systems, and I cannot blame the lack of stopping power on that. Something else is going on or the motor home has extremely undersized braking system attached to the chassis.
Does anyone have experience with this, and what can I do to resolve the issue?
Afraid to drive down a hill for fear I canot stop if I need to.

........................

Kazoo Tom · 03-29-2009, 09:52 PM

You haven't mentioned if you have a Ford or Workhorse chassis. That might make a difference in some responses. Clearly you have a defective braking system. If it were me, I would have it in for repair or back to the dealer ASAP.

autofish · 03-29-2009, 10:09 PM

Have you checked the power assist unit sounds like it may not be working may be no vaccume. Would not drive till you get it fixed good luck'

LVJ58 · 03-29-2009, 10:47 PM

I would highly recommend you take it to a Workhorse chassis facility and have it checked out ASAP

Good luck

DAN L · 03-30-2009, 04:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CAlifnuby

aas947@sbcglobal.netI recently purchased a Used 2000 Winnebago 33v Brave Class A motor home, with the Workhorse Chassis. Only has 23,000 miles on it. My problem is the Motorhome will slow down, but it wont stop. Not trying to be funny, and ABS issues aside, when you press as hard as you can on the brakes at any speed, the best you can expect is to gradualy slow down, as far as a panic stop, forget it, the unit has 4 wheel disk brakes, but as far as a panic or emergency stop, not gonna happen. I am well versed on anti lock brake systems, and I cannot blame the lack of stopping power on that. Something else is going on or the motor home has extremely undersized braking system attached to the chassis.
Does anyone have experience with this, and what can I do to resolve the issue?
Afraid to drive down a hill for fear I canot stop if I need to.

........................

have you checked the brake fluid quantity? if you have a workhorse chassis, the power steering fluid level must be adequate. some others have vacuum boost.

Izzyblueye · 03-30-2009, 06:56 AM

You may need a brake fluid change out, and brake system flush. It is amazing what brake fluid looks like after several years of picking up moisture. It is more like molasses than brake fluid.

DriVer · 03-30-2009, 08:59 AM

... all very good suggestions guys.

We would also like to add to use select down shifting to slow down the vehicle while coming down grades as well.

With the pedal remaining hard there should be some brakes. P series are known for having a hard pedal however the brakes should work. As this vehicle is obviously out of warranty and you live in California, consider visiting Redlands Truck and RV to resolve this problem. They would be an excellent service center for you to try.

Kazoo Tom · 03-30-2009, 03:39 PM

I really DO need my glasses. Guess you did mention it was a workhorse chassis.

George Z · 03-30-2009, 03:44 PM

You might want to check the calipers to make sure there are no seized pistons (due to lack of use while setting).

Glenn&Audrey · 04-10-2009, 10:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Homer

You may need a brake fluid change out, and brake system flush. It is amazing what brake fluid looks like after several years of picking up moisture. It is more like molasses than brake fluid.

Good answer, been there done that, worked great afterwards.

DriVer · 04-11-2009, 09:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Glenn&Audrey

Good answer, been there done that, worked great afterwards.

Glenn&Audrey, Thank you for sharing. It can't be stressed and repeated enough times.

I hope that everyone here in this forum will get on-board with the requirement to change their brake fluid.

Ace_Clark · 04-17-2009, 06:10 PM

Is flushing your brake fluid on a coach, the same process as on a car/truck? Then its very easy~!

TandW · 04-17-2009, 06:24 PM

Welcome to the forum! Check for excessive idle rpm and or non-fully returning throttle positioner. Drive like you don't have brakes in the first place. And don't be trapped into a panic stop! Everything that isn't tied down suddenly becomes a missile hazard!! Good luck!

Izzyblueye · 04-17-2009, 07:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ace_Clark

Is flushing your brake fluid on a coach, the same process as on a car/truck? Then its very easy~!

Pretty much the same thing. I had my system flushed before the new fluid was installed. I am not certain what he used for a flush, but I think he said it was alcohol. I had it done by a truck service garage.