While I have been 'lurking' on the Forum for a couple of months now, we have finally brought our 'new to us' 1993 36' Grand Villa home. We are first time RV owners and came to this purchase through the advice of an experienced and enthusiastic RV friend. I am at the stage of diving into the pool of knowledge about the many and varied systems within any Foretravel vehicle.
My question pertains to engine retarding systems and a device called Sealco Axle Control. This GV has a Pacbrake (exhaust brake) although the previous owner claims to have seldom used it and "didn't need it". I intend to use it, have lubed it and made sure that the butterfly valve is moveable. We will see how it goes when I find a decline to test it on.
The Sealco Axle Control is a "Large Body Pressure Control Valve" according to the Sealco website, but I can't find much useful that explains what it does, how it is used, and if it is an alternative to an exhaust-based engine retarder. Any ideas, or experience with this device?
Someone who has a coach similar to yours can help you better than me. But in the mean time I don't see any use for an axle control valve on a two axle coach. It may be being used for a different application such as parking brake, dump valve etc. Did the previous owner go over the controls and switches with you?
Due to health issues, the previous owner is not able to answer my questions. He owned a couple of logging trucks as well and I am guessing that it was useful to him. I might have to drive back up and consult with the mechanic who worked on his trucks. I was curious why he didn't use the Pacbrake, and wondered if this is a substitute. The Sealco sites are not helpful for an explanationas to how their product is used.
Woody & Sandy,
Welcome to the group! Glad to see you moving from "lurking" to "posting". I followed the exact same process when we bought our coach. Thank you for filling out your signature info - very helpful when answering your questions. Your coach was "born" only 20 units later than ours, so they are practically litter mates! I hope you enjoy yours as much as we do ours.
The Sealco Axle Control is a new one on me - no idea what it is or how to use it. Others will hopefully be more helpful on that subject.
I do, however, have some knowledge of exhaust brakes. We have a Super-Duty D-Celerator, marketed by AP Products.
D-Celerator Diesel Exhaust Brake (http://www.usgear.cc/dcelerator.htm)
So, different manufacturer, but from my reading similar in concept to the Pacbrake PRXB. Our brake was completely inoperative when we bought the coach, so I had to go through a self-education process first on how it worked, and then on how to return it to proper function. Our brake now works correctly as designed, and on our last trip to the west coast I found it quite effective when descending Rocky Mountain slopes. I think I can provide answers based on real-world experience if you have any specific questions.
Don't be shy about asking anything around here! And post some photos of your new ride when you have a chance!
My suggestion is to stay with a PacBrake. If your is not working properly and you have to replace it, go with the PRXB PacBrake.
What is the pre-select gear for the exhaust brake (i.e. what does the left window of the Allison shift pad indicate when the exhaust brake is turned on and throttle closed?
Our's is an upgrade to the PRXB, works perfect. The coach is due for a lube, and I'll make sure the PB gets attention.
If he owned big rigs he could have used one of his axle lift valves for another function. There is no chance this is being used as your parking brake is it?