Skip to main content ↑ ↓
Topic: 98 U295 Intermittent Retarder Operation (Read 177 times) previous topic - next topic

98 U295 Intermittent Retarder Operation

Currently on the road and the retarder has become intermittently operational, and right now, not operating.  Transmission seems to be shifting more than normal. All fluids have been checked and fine. Any ideas for us to check out?
1998 U295 36' WFTE No Slides, C8.3-325 Cummins, Build #5262
Motorcade #17786
FMCA#1464376

Re: 98 U295 Intermittent Retarder Operation

Reply #1 –
You may have 2 problems rather than one so here is a few thoughts.
First you need to pull any codes off the shift pad for more info on trouble from the World ECM for possible shifting info.
The thing I would check that is related to the retarder is to see if the air vent on the control module is stopped up with a bug. This is located mounted on the retarder accumulator.

Mike
Pamela & Mike 97 U 320

"It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters."

Re: 98 U295 Intermittent Retarder Operation

Reply #2 –
It took me a while to find this thread for you as my IT department was out in the garden.  Your coach is old enough for it to have the old style valve that can be disassembled and cleaned. Here is a link to what you need to do if you find that the exhaust port is stopped up. Allison retarder air valve

Mike
Pamela & Mike 97 U 320

"It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters."

Re: 98 U295 Intermittent Retarder Operation

Reply #3 –
Did you find any trans fluid in the valve if yes it could be the accumulator.

Re: 98 U295 Intermittent Retarder Operation

Reply #4 –
The retarder will function with a failed air valve, it is just slower to engage.

Is the retarder light coming on when the retarder is supposed to be engaged?  Start with that.


Years ago, I had intermittent not working of my retarder. It was random, and usually for like 5-10 minutes. I never found the problem and it seems to have gone away.  I have a retarder joystick installed, so there are multiple ways to engage the retarder.
1998 U270 34'

Re: 98 U295 Intermittent Retarder Operation

Reply #5 –
Tharris48,
A few years ago, I was experiencing intermittent retarder operation also. It progressively got worse as time went on. I checked all the connections between the controller, touch pad and joystick. Unplugged, cleaned with contact cleaner, replugged, ,nothing seemed to help. I could pull into a rest area, shut off the ignition, start back on the road and it would work most times but not all. Due to the age (25 plus years) I decided to send the controller and touch pad to John at Transmission Instruments for a complete check out and recondition of the unit. They did great work, It has worked flawlessly since the repair, no more retarder issues, it also seems to shift smoother. (except for downshifting from 5th to 4th, which is still quite abrupt sometimes) Not a big deal though.

Definitely recommend Transmission Instruments if you can't find an obvious reason for your retarder issues.
Justin & Cathy Byrd
1995 U280 "Old Faithful"
36' Build #4673
C8.3 Cummins
Allison MD3060R 6 speed - retarder
Powertech 10KW  4cyl Kubota