Monaco DIPLOMAT 2004, Руководство пользователя

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DIPLOMAT 2004
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CHASSIS INFORMATION
The motorhome is equipped with air brakes using the same efficient
system as over the road trucks. Proper maintenance and lubrication is the key to
keeping the brake system in proper working order. The brake system on the
motorhome is designed to accommodate the weight of the vehicle and towing
loads. This system differs from a conventional automotive hydraulic braking
system and should be treated differently.
When operating a vehicle equipped with air brakes consideration needs to
be given to stopping distances and air system pressures. The heavier the
vehicle, the greater the kinetic energy. The motorhome requires longer
stopping distances. Each brake application uses air from the air system.
Give attention to the air gauge as well as the surroundings. Engine speed is
directly proportional to how fast the air system is replenished. Prepare for
downhill grades. Grades are generally posted in percentages. It may be
necessary to select a lower gear. Make use of the engine Jake brake. When
making brake applications use individual short applications down long hills
rather than “riding” the brakes. This will extend the life of the brake lining.
Avoid overheating the brakes. Hot brakes have less stopping power. When
maneuvering the motorhome around in small areas, or backing into spaces,
several individual brake applications might be made. Watch the air gauge.
Plan ahead when parking to make it easier on yourself. When preparing to
back into a space swing the motorhome so it is aligned with the parking slot
before backing up.
The air braking system on the motorhome is equipped with several safety
features unlike that of automotive hydraulic braking systems. One safety fea-
ture is a low air pressure warning system. Should a low air condition arise
while the vehicle is under operation a warning buzzer will sound and a dash
warning light will illuminate alerting the operator of the situation. This
warning occurs at approximately 60 to 65 psi (pounds per square inch).
A simple mechanical explanation of what occurs when a brake application
is made as follows: The air system supplies air to the foot brake, this is
called a treadle valve. Pushing down on the treadle valve supplies an air
charge signal to a brake chamber. This sealed chamber consists of a spring
and air bladder. The air charge signal pushes on the bladder which extends a
threaded rod connected to the automatic slack adjuster. The slack adjuster
rotates the S-cam expanding the shoes against the drum. Air disc brakes
follow much the same principal, with the exception of the S-cams.
BRAKE SYSTEMS
- Air Brakes