TROY, MI - With CVSA (Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance) Brake Safety Week 2009 approaching, ArvinMeritor offers ten brake-related tips to help North American truck operators and maintenance professionals get the brake performance they expect. ⁽¹⁾

1)  Automatic Slack Adjusters (ASA):  Always troubleshoot brakes when the air chamber stroke exceeds the allowable limits. When you need to replace one automatic slack adjuster, replace all the ASAs on the same axle with components that meet the original spec. Mismatched brands can result in uneven brake wear, unbalanced braking and poor brake performance.

Meritor automatic slack adjusters should not need to be manually adjusted in service to correct excessive push rod stroke. Excessive stroke may be an indication that a problem exists with the foundation brake, ASA, brake actuator or other system components.

Meritor recommends that you troubleshoot the problem, replace suspect components, and confirm correct brake operation before returning the vehicle to service. In the event that a manual adjustment must be made (although not a common practice), a service appointment and full foundation brake, ASA, and other system components inspection should be performed as soon as possible to help ensure the integrity of the overall brake system.

Always use lubricants specified for brakes and ASA.

2)  Cam Brakes:  When you service cam brakes, take time to replace all the springs, anchor pins, bushings and rollers. This includes replacing the cam brake return springs each time cam brakes are relined. The return springs are critical to the alignment, the accurate return of the brake away from the drum, and brake adjustment with the ASA. Inspect the entire brake structure for wear, cracks or other damage. Replace damaged parts with new rather than welding or repairing. Lubricate the cam brake assembly as required.