I thought I'd post this here just in case someone with experience with a '94 Fleetwood Bounder, DP, might know something about my problem.
I am hoping someone might have run into this before and have an explanation of how the Parking Brake (PB) system operates. And perhaps the location of the suspected problem switch.
This is a diesel pusher, and has a Bendix Spring Actuated parking brake system. The brake drum surrounds the drive shaft. The spring is retracted to release the brake when the engine is running and the shift lever is placed other then 'P'. If the engine isn't running, no park brake operation. When stopped, when the shift lever is moved to 'P', a hydraulic system releases the spring device which applies the brake.
My problem seems to have been with this RV for a very long time. When I bought the rig in '04, I found I didn't have PB function and on inspection, found that the mechanical adjustment was set about 1" too loose so that the brake pads didn't contact the brake drum. They looked brand new. So I adjusted it correctly and had PB for a while. Over the next several years I would occasionally notice that the PB lamp would flicker a little now and then while driving. Even on smooth roads. After a few years, the PB would repeated apply while I was backing up. Finally, it started to come on solid (and apply the PB) while I was driving. If I'd throw it down into 3rd, the brake would release and I could go for miles no problem.
Finally, it got to the point that it was coming on most of the time while in 'D', '3' & sometimes '2'. That ruined the brake pads and scored the drum. When I had it worked on, the guys weren't really familiar with the system and did their best to figure out why it was coming on in 'D'. They thought they had it and rebuilt a hydraulic valve assembly. Also turned the drum and replaced the brake pads. It seemed to be OK.
All was well for around 100 miles. Then the 'PB' lamp started flickering again in 'D'. Too far away and short of time, I didn't take it back to the shop that had worked on it.
I'd like to see if I can get some advice on this forum.
I have Fleetwood & Freightliner (was Oshkosh) schematics but they aren't much help as to the LOCATION of whatever switch is causing the problem. Their labeling of the devices on schematics leaves a lot to be desired too.
There is a mystery switch on (partially inside??) the transmission case near the shift lever assembly with two wires coming off of it. Could that be the switch? Anyone know for sure before I drop the pan?
Anyone here have experience with this Bendix PB system? Note that this system doesn't use the 'Rotten Green Switch' so famous for failing in gas rigs. I talked to Old Used Bear (the expert on the PB in gas rigs) and he assured me my system doesn't use that.
Anyone know where I could get an operational schematic of the PB system? The one provided by Freightliner is useless.
Thanks.
(This is a reprise of a post I put on iRV2 yesterday...no response).
the mystery switch is probably the reverse light switch. Unplug the harness and then have someone tell you if reverse lights come on after you have disconnected it, and put it in reverse. If they don't there's your answer.
Most park brake systems like this require you to be in neutral with the key in the on position to correctly adjust the linkage to the park drum, which is likely a threaded clevis with a cotter pin that needs to come out first. The clevis should be attached to an arm that moves the brake shoes in and out and is behind the drum. Chock the wheels first and put it in neutral with key on, and then adjust the play. The control box for the park brake rarely goes bad.
Jim,
I'd sure like to be able to assist you on this one as I've got lots of experience with the infamous "ZF" parking brake on the Gas Bounders but, yours, not a clue. Sorry.
Scott
Scott and Karla SDFD RETIRED
2004 Itasca Horizon, 36GD Slate Blue 330 CAT
2011 White Honda CRV EX-L,4WD w/NAV Toad 2008 Caliente Red LVL II GL 1800 Goldwing KI60ND
I believe that is the same system on mine, and I have read many threads on this and other forums about the problem you are describing.
Google it, our search here and other RV sites for massive info.
Fulltime livin' & lovin' it in '94 Bounder 32h.
Chevy 454ci Retire in 3yrs.
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Jim@HiTek
