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Topic: Sealco Axle Control and Pacbrake exhaust retarding (Read 363 times) previous topic - next topic

Sealco Axle Control and Pacbrake exhaust retarding

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?
Woody & Sandy Lloyd
1993 Grand Villa
Unihome U280
Cummins / Allison
Build # 4379

Re: Sealco Axle Control and Pacbrake exhaust retarding

Reply #1 –
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?
1999 40 ft. U-320 wtfe build 5563 Chuck & Lynda's "Rollin' Inn"  2030 watts solar
prev. mh's 71 GMC 5 yrs. 73 Pace Setter 1 yr. 78 Vogue 5 yrs 81 FTX 40ft all electric 18 yrs. 1996 Monaco Signature 3 yrs.
2014 Grand Cherokee Overland
Dream as if you will live forever. Live as if you will die today.  James Dean

Re: Sealco Axle Control and Pacbrake exhaust retarding

Reply #2 –
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 Lloyd
1993 Grand Villa
Unihome U280
Cummins / Allison
Build # 4379

Re: Sealco Axle Control and Pacbrake exhaust retarding

Reply #3 –
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

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!
1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"Nature abhors a vacuum"

Re: Sealco Axle Control and Pacbrake exhaust retarding

Reply #4 –
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?
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: Sealco Axle Control and Pacbrake exhaust retarding

Reply #5 –
Quote from: wolfe10 –
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

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.
1993 U-240 "La Villa Grande"..CAT 3116 w/ Pacbrake PRXB...Allison 3060 6-speed..
Previous: 1983 Airstream 310 turbo diesel, 1979 Airstream 280 turbo diesel
                                      Build # 4297
                                      PNW natives
                      Home base:  'Cactus Hug' (Ajo, Arizona)
                        DW Judy & Chet the wonder dog
                        Full-Timers 'Sailing the asphalt sea'
 

Re: Sealco Axle Control and Pacbrake exhaust retarding

Reply #6 –
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?
1999 40 ft. U-320 wtfe build 5563 Chuck & Lynda's "Rollin' Inn"  2030 watts solar
prev. mh's 71 GMC 5 yrs. 73 Pace Setter 1 yr. 78 Vogue 5 yrs 81 FTX 40ft all electric 18 yrs. 1996 Monaco Signature 3 yrs.
2014 Grand Cherokee Overland
Dream as if you will live forever. Live as if you will die today.  James Dean