SECTION 12: BRAKE AND AIR SYSTEM
16
DOB 2490-2789 | X3-45 Commuter PA1605 Maintenance Manual (Final Version – Rev.2 April 2016)
23. AIR SYSTEM TROUBLESHOOTING
The following list has been designed to help in
troubleshooting some of the most common
problems in the air system and main causes. For
air brakes troubleshooting, refer to “
Air Brakes
Troubleshooting”
in this section. For more
troubleshooting information, refer to the
manufacturer's brochures annexed to this
section.
Air pressure doesn't rise to, or doesn't maintain,
a normal setting:
Defective air gauge (registering incorrectly).
Excessive leaking in air system.
Reservoir drain cock open.
False
sensor.
Defective
compressor.
Worn compressor or excessive wear on
piston and/or ring.
Air pressure rises to normal setting too
slowly.
Excessive leaking in air system:
Clogged engine air cleaner.
Worn compressor or excessive wear on
piston and/or ring.
Engine speed too low.
Air pressure rises above a normal setting:
Defective air gauge (registering incorrectly).
Governor poorly adjusted or defective.
Restriction in line between governor and
compressor unloading mechanism.
Air pressure drops quickly when engine is
stopped:
Leaks in compressor discharge valve.
Leaks in governor.
Leaks in air lines.
Leaks in air system valves.
24. BRAKE
OPERATION
The vehicle braking system uses both service
and parking air-operated brakes. The air system
is divided into two independent circuits to isolate
the front axle brakes and the rear axle brakes
(drive and tag), thus providing safe brake
operation in the event that one circuit of the
system fails. The primary circuit is connected to
the drive and tag axle brakes, while the
secondary circuit is connected to the front axle
brakes. The tag axle service brakes operate only
when the axle is in the normal driving (loaded)
position. The spring-type emergency brakes are
mounted on the drive axle, and will apply
automatically if primary system pressure falls
below 60 psi (414 kPa).
Furthermore, brake application or release, which
is speed up by a pneumatic relay valve (R-14),
will start with the rear axles and be followed by
the front axle, thus providing uniform braking on a
slippery surface. The vehicle is also equipped
with an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), detailed
later in this section.
Brake and air system maintenance consists of
periodic inspections. Check all parts for damage
and brake adjustment (refer to subsequent
headings in this section for more details). Ensure
all fasteners are tight (refer to “
Specifications"
for
recommended tightening torques).
