Another compressor problem

[Gregory OConnor]

John, if the belt is tight and the compressor is spinning check the
key in the pully shaft???? you can also check to see if the
compressor head gets hot???

If it is a leak it must be big. you can not hear it because it wont
build enough pressure to hiss and while the cat is running there is
too much noise to hear a big leak hiss. I would hook the aux air up
to a remote shop compressor and look for a leak that way. build a
male to mail fitting for a remote compressor line's female end and
try and build up the tanks in the bus that way?????? I have had
valves hang up that just needed a jolt of reverse air to get thm
free.

It could also be that there is a blockage in the compressor output
line to the first tank

GregoryO'Connor
94ptRomolandCa






--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "bubblerboy64"
wrote:
>
> Upon trying to take the son-in-law for a turn in the bus I found
that
> the compressor would not bring the air up to release the brakes.
> Checked and the belt is Ok and the compressors seems to be turning
Ok.
> Is there a solenoid or a switch which activates and deactivates
the
> compressor. I get about 30lbs on the air gauge but no more. The
only
> other clue is that when the compressor is running normally it
makes
> enough noise that I can hear it and it is not doing that. Don't
know
> beans about what I am dealing with but any help or suggestions as
to
> what to look at or for would certainly be appreciated.
>
> John Heckman
> central Pa
> 1973 FC converted to 3208 CAT
>

[bubblerboy64]

I haven't had a chance to look into this today as yet. I appeciate
the help to this point. My question is what regulates the
compressor? The pulley is spinning all the time but I can tell by the
sound that it cycles on an off as far as a load.The compressor
mounting rattles rather noisily when it is changing the tanks. Does
something close and open to fill the tanks? I have this idea again
perhaps I am wrong that this is electrical? Or as Gregory said there
is a valve sticking. Now where are the valves? In the top of the
compressor. Remember this thing is bits and pieces of parts so that
makes it even more interesting. I had this occur before one time and
my shore batteries were down. I got the batteries charged up and the
compressor kicked in. Could be just lucky or a coincidence? Seems
like a leak would leak all the time rather then come and go. I plan
on fooling around here today with it so I will be back and forth. I
guess the first thing I will do is just start the bus and try again.
I need to figure this out because at some point its going to stay
broke. Likely at the worst possible time. So I need to understand
the system a little better.
John Heckman
central Pa
1973 FC




>
> John, if the belt is tight and the compressor is spinning check the
> key in the pully shaft???? you can also check to see if the
> compressor head gets hot???
>
> If it is a leak it must be big. you can not hear it because it
wont
> build enough pressure to hiss and while the cat is running there is
> too much noise to hear a big leak hiss. I would hook the aux air up
> to a remote shop compressor and look for a leak that way. build a
> male to mail fitting for a remote compressor line's female end and
> try and build up the tanks in the bus that way?????? I have had
> valves hang up that just needed a jolt of reverse air to get thm
> free.
>
> It could also be that there is a blockage in the compressor output
> line to the first tank
>
> GregoryO'Connor
> 94ptRomolandCa
>
>
>
>
>
>
> --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "bubblerboy64"
> wrote:
> >
> > Upon trying to take the son-in-law for a turn in the bus I found
> that
> > the compressor would not bring the air up to release the brakes.
> > Checked and the belt is Ok and the compressors seems to be
turning
> Ok.
> > Is there a solenoid or a switch which activates and deactivates
> the
> > compressor. I get about 30lbs on the air gauge but no more. The
> only
> > other clue is that when the compressor is running normally it
> makes
> > enough noise that I can hear it and it is not doing that. Don't
> know
> > beans about what I am dealing with but any help or suggestions as
> to
> > what to look at or for would certainly be appreciated.
> >
> > John Heckman
> > central Pa
> > 1973 FC converted to 3208 CAT
> >
>

[bubblerboy64]

Well, I went out and started the bus and wouldn't you know it the
compressor immediately kicked on and functioned as it should. It
cycled up to 125psi on the gauge and shut off and every thing seems
fine. But we know that is not the case. Idea's thoughts anything on
this with this little bit more information.
John Heckman
central Pa
1973 FC
>
> I haven't had a chance to look into this today as yet. I appeciate
> the help to this point. My question is what regulates the
> compressor? The pulley is spinning all the time but I can tell by
the
> sound that it cycles on an off as far as a load.The compressor
> mounting rattles rather noisily when it is changing the tanks.
Does
> something close and open to fill the tanks? I have this idea again
> perhaps I am wrong that this is electrical? Or as Gregory said
there
> is a valve sticking. Now where are the valves? In the top of the
> compressor. Remember this thing is bits and pieces of parts so
that
> makes it even more interesting. I had this occur before one time
and
> my shore batteries were down. I got the batteries charged up and
the
> compressor kicked in. Could be just lucky or a coincidence? Seems
> like a leak would leak all the time rather then come and go. I
plan
> on fooling around here today with it so I will be back and forth. I
> guess the first thing I will do is just start the bus and try
again.
> I need to figure this out because at some point its going to stay
> broke. Likely at the worst possible time. So I need to understand
> the system a little better.
> John Heckman
> central Pa
> 1973 FC
>
>
>
>
> >
> > John, if the belt is tight and the compressor is spinning check
the
> > key in the pully shaft???? you can also check to see if the
> > compressor head gets hot???
> >
> > If it is a leak it must be big. you can not hear it because it
> wont
> > build enough pressure to hiss and while the cat is running there
is
> > too much noise to hear a big leak hiss. I would hook the aux air
up
> > to a remote shop compressor and look for a leak that way. build
a
> > male to mail fitting for a remote compressor line's female end
and
> > try and build up the tanks in the bus that way?????? I have had
> > valves hang up that just needed a jolt of reverse air to get thm
> > free.
> >
> > It could also be that there is a blockage in the compressor
output
> > line to the first tank
> >
> > GregoryO'Connor
> > 94ptRomolandCa
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "bubblerboy64"
> > wrote:
> > >
> > > Upon trying to take the son-in-law for a turn in the bus I
found
> > that
> > > the compressor would not bring the air up to release the
brakes.
> > > Checked and the belt is Ok and the compressors seems to be
> turning
> > Ok.
> > > Is there a solenoid or a switch which activates and deactivates
> > the
> > > compressor. I get about 30lbs on the air gauge but no more.
The
> > only
> > > other clue is that when the compressor is running normally it
> > makes
> > > enough noise that I can hear it and it is not doing that.
Don't
> > know
> > > beans about what I am dealing with but any help or suggestions
as
> > to
> > > what to look at or for would certainly be appreciated.
> > >
> > > John Heckman
> > > central Pa
> > > 1973 FC converted to 3208 CAT
> > >
> >
>

[Curt Sprenger]

My guess is it's the governor, assuming there is a governor on your coach.
Myself, others, have reported like problems and resolved the problem by
removing the old governor and installing a new (not rebuilt) governor.

On Dec 31, 2007 6:36 AM, bubblerboy64 wrote:

> Well, I went out and started the bus and wouldn't you know it the
> compressor immediately kicked on and functioned as it should. It
> cycled up to 125psi on the gauge and shut off and every thing seems
> fine. But we know that is not the case. Idea's thoughts anything on
> this with this little bit more information.
> John Heckman
> central Pa
> 1973 FC
> >
> > I haven't had a chance to look into this today as yet. I appeciate
> > the help to this point. My question is what regulates the
> > compressor? The pulley is spinning all the time but I can tell by
> the
> > sound that it cycles on an off as far as a load.The compressor
> > mounting rattles rather noisily when it is changing the tanks.
> Does
> > something close and open to fill the tanks? I have this idea again
> > perhaps I am wrong that this is electrical? Or as Gregory said
> there
> > is a valve sticking. Now where are the valves? In the top of the
> > compressor. Remember this thing is bits and pieces of parts so
> that
> > makes it even more interesting. I had this occur before one time
> and
> > my shore batteries were down. I got the batteries charged up and
> the
> > compressor kicked in. Could be just lucky or a coincidence? Seems
> > like a leak would leak all the time rather then come and go. I
> plan
> > on fooling around here today with it so I will be back and forth. I
> > guess the first thing I will do is just start the bus and try
> again.
> > I need to figure this out because at some point its going to stay
> > broke. Likely at the worst possible time. So I need to understand
> > the system a little better.
> > John Heckman
> > central Pa
> > 1973 FC
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > >
> > > John, if the belt is tight and the compressor is spinning check
> the
> > > key in the pully shaft???? you can also check to see if the
> > > compressor head gets hot???
> > >
> > > If it is a leak it must be big. you can not hear it because it
> > wont
> > > build enough pressure to hiss and while the cat is running there
> is
> > > too much noise to hear a big leak hiss. I would hook the aux air
> up
> > > to a remote shop compressor and look for a leak that way. build
> a
> > > male to mail fitting for a remote compressor line's female end
> and
> > > try and build up the tanks in the bus that way?????? I have had
> > > valves hang up that just needed a jolt of reverse air to get thm
> > > free.
> > >
> > > It could also be that there is a blockage in the compressor
> output
> > > line to the first tank
> > >
> > > GregoryO'Connor
> > > 94ptRomolandCa
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > --- In
WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com,
> "bubblerboy64"
> > > wrote:
> > > >
> > > > Upon trying to take the son-in-law for a turn in the bus I
> found
> > > that
> > > > the compressor would not bring the air up to release the
> brakes.
> > > > Checked and the belt is Ok and the compressors seems to be
> > turning
> > > Ok.
> > > > Is there a solenoid or a switch which activates and deactivates
> > > the
> > > > compressor. I get about 30lbs on the air gauge but no more.
> The
> > > only
> > > > other clue is that when the compressor is running normally it
> > > makes
> > > > enough noise that I can hear it and it is not doing that.
> Don't
> > > know
> > > > beans about what I am dealing with but any help or suggestions
> as
> > > to
> > > > what to look at or for would certainly be appreciated.
> > > >
> > > > John Heckman
> > > > central Pa
> > > > 1973 FC converted to 3208 CAT
> > > >
> > >
> >
>
>
>



--
Curt Sprenger
1987 PT38 8V92 "MacAttack Racing"
Anaheim Hills, CA


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

[bubblerboy64]

Ok, Where is the governor? You guys gotta remember I am pretty much
stupid on this stuff. The only thing on the compressor is what
appears to be a small filter housing on right side of the thing
looking into the engine bay from the front of the bus. Something
obviously opens and or controls the compressor because when it is
functioning I can hear it cycle on and off.
John Heckman
central Pa
1973 FC




>
> My guess is it's the governor, assuming there is a governor on your
coach.
> Myself, others, have reported like problems and resolved the
problem by
> removing the old governor and installing a new (not rebuilt)
governor.
>
> On Dec 31, 2007 6:36 AM, bubblerboy64 wrote:
>
> > Well, I went out and started the bus and wouldn't you know it
the
> > compressor immediately kicked on and functioned as it should. It
> > cycled up to 125psi on the gauge and shut off and every thing
seems
> > fine. But we know that is not the case. Idea's thoughts anything
on
> > this with this little bit more information.
> > John Heckman
> > central Pa
> > 1973 FC
> > >
> > > I haven't had a chance to look into this today as yet. I
appeciate
> > > the help to this point. My question is what regulates the
> > > compressor? The pulley is spinning all the time but I can tell
by
> > the
> > > sound that it cycles on an off as far as a load.The compressor
> > > mounting rattles rather noisily when it is changing the tanks.
> > Does
> > > something close and open to fill the tanks? I have this idea
again
> > > perhaps I am wrong that this is electrical? Or as Gregory said
> > there
> > > is a valve sticking. Now where are the valves? In the top of the
> > > compressor. Remember this thing is bits and pieces of parts so
> > that
> > > makes it even more interesting. I had this occur before one time
> > and
> > > my shore batteries were down. I got the batteries charged up and
> > the
> > > compressor kicked in. Could be just lucky or a coincidence?
Seems
> > > like a leak would leak all the time rather then come and go. I
> > plan
> > > on fooling around here today with it so I will be back and
forth. I
> > > guess the first thing I will do is just start the bus and try
> > again.
> > > I need to figure this out because at some point its going to
stay
> > > broke. Likely at the worst possible time. So I need to
understand
> > > the system a little better.
> > > John Heckman
> > > central Pa
> > > 1973 FC
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > >
> > > > John, if the belt is tight and the compressor is spinning
check
> > the
> > > > key in the pully shaft???? you can also check to see if the
> > > > compressor head gets hot???
> > > >
> > > > If it is a leak it must be big. you can not hear it because it
> > > wont
> > > > build enough pressure to hiss and while the cat is running
there
> > is
> > > > too much noise to hear a big leak hiss. I would hook the aux
air
> > up
> > > > to a remote shop compressor and look for a leak that way.
build
> > a
> > > > male to mail fitting for a remote compressor line's female end
> > and
> > > > try and build up the tanks in the bus that way?????? I have
had
> > > > valves hang up that just needed a jolt of reverse air to get
thm
> > > > free.
> > > >
> > > > It could also be that there is a blockage in the compressor
> > output
> > > > line to the first tank
> > > >
> > > > GregoryO'Connor
> > > > 94ptRomolandCa
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com 40yahoogroups.com>,
> > "bubblerboy64"
> > > > wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > Upon trying to take the son-in-law for a turn in the bus I
> > found
> > > > that
> > > > > the compressor would not bring the air up to release the
> > brakes.
> > > > > Checked and the belt is Ok and the compressors seems to be
> > > turning
> > > > Ok.
> > > > > Is there a solenoid or a switch which activates and
deactivates
> > > > the
> > > > > compressor. I get about 30lbs on the air gauge but no more.
> > The
> > > > only
> > > > > other clue is that when the compressor is running normally
it
> > > > makes
> > > > > enough noise that I can hear it and it is not doing that.
> > Don't
> > > > know
> > > > > beans about what I am dealing with but any help or
suggestions
> > as
> > > > to
> > > > > what to look at or for would certainly be appreciated.
> > > > >
> > > > > John Heckman
> > > > > central Pa
> > > > > 1973 FC converted to 3208 CAT
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
> --
> Curt Sprenger
> 1987 PT38 8V92 "MacAttack Racing"
> Anaheim Hills, CA
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

[Curt Sprenger]

I wish I could answer your question. Here is a link to an air governor
picture. If there is a governor on your coach, I believe it will look like
this one, probable an aluminum color, not gold.

http://velvac.thomasnet.com/viewitems/ai...ernor\
-d-2-style-

On Dec 31, 2007 7:03 AM, bubblerboy64 wrote:

> Ok, Where is the governor? You guys gotta remember I am pretty much
> stupid on this stuff. The only thing on the compressor is what
> appears to be a small filter housing on right side of the thing
> looking into the engine bay from the front of the bus. Something
> obviously opens and or controls the compressor because when it is
> functioning I can hear it cycle on and off.
>
> John Heckman
> central Pa
> 1973 FC
>
> >
> > My guess is it's the governor, assuming there is a governor on your
> coach.
> > Myself, others, have reported like problems and resolved the
> problem by
> > removing the old governor and installing a new (not rebuilt)
> governor.
> >
> > On Dec 31, 2007 6:36 AM, bubblerboy64 wrote:
> >
> > > Well, I went out and started the bus and wouldn't you know it
> the
> > > compressor immediately kicked on and functioned as it should. It
> > > cycled up to 125psi on the gauge and shut off and every thing
> seems
> > > fine. But we know that is not the case. Idea's thoughts anything
> on
> > > this with this little bit more information.
> > > John Heckman
> > > central Pa
> > > 1973 FC
> > > >
> > > > I haven't had a chance to look into this today as yet. I
> appeciate
> > > > the help to this point. My question is what regulates the
> > > > compressor? The pulley is spinning all the time but I can tell
> by
> > > the
> > > > sound that it cycles on an off as far as a load.The compressor
> > > > mounting rattles rather noisily when it is changing the tanks.
> > > Does
> > > > something close and open to fill the tanks? I have this idea
> again
> > > > perhaps I am wrong that this is electrical? Or as Gregory said
> > > there
> > > > is a valve sticking. Now where are the valves? In the top of the
> > > > compressor. Remember this thing is bits and pieces of parts so
> > > that
> > > > makes it even more interesting. I had this occur before one time
> > > and
> > > > my shore batteries were down. I got the batteries charged up and
> > > the
> > > > compressor kicked in. Could be just lucky or a coincidence?
> Seems
> > > > like a leak would leak all the time rather then come and go. I
> > > plan
> > > > on fooling around here today with it so I will be back and
> forth. I
> > > > guess the first thing I will do is just start the bus and try
> > > again.
> > > > I need to figure this out because at some point its going to
> stay
> > > > broke. Likely at the worst possible time. So I need to
> understand
> > > > the system a little better.
> > > > John Heckman
> > > > central Pa
> > > > 1973 FC
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > John, if the belt is tight and the compressor is spinning
> check
> > > the
> > > > > key in the pully shaft???? you can also check to see if the
> > > > > compressor head gets hot???
> > > > >
> > > > > If it is a leak it must be big. you can not hear it because it
> > > > wont
> > > > > build enough pressure to hiss and while the cat is running
> there
> > > is
> > > > > too much noise to hear a big leak hiss. I would hook the aux
> air
> > > up
> > > > > to a remote shop compressor and look for a leak that way.
> build
> > > a
> > > > > male to mail fitting for a remote compressor line's female end
> > > and
> > > > > try and build up the tanks in the bus that way?????? I have
> had
> > > > > valves hang up that just needed a jolt of reverse air to get
> thm
> > > > > free.
> > > > >
> > > > > It could also be that there is a blockage in the compressor
> > > output
> > > > > line to the first tank
> > > > >
> > > > > GregoryO'Connor
> > > > > 94ptRomolandCa
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In
WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
> > 40yahoogroups.com>,
>
> > > "bubblerboy64"
> > > > > wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Upon trying to take the son-in-law for a turn in the bus I
> > > found
> > > > > that
> > > > > > the compressor would not bring the air up to release the
> > > brakes.
> > > > > > Checked and the belt is Ok and the compressors seems to be
> > > > turning
> > > > > Ok.
> > > > > > Is there a solenoid or a switch which activates and
> deactivates
> > > > > the
> > > > > > compressor. I get about 30lbs on the air gauge but no more.
> > > The
> > > > > only
> > > > > > other clue is that when the compressor is running normally
> it
> > > > > makes
> > > > > > enough noise that I can hear it and it is not doing that.
> > > Don't
> > > > > know
> > > > > > beans about what I am dealing with but any help or
> suggestions
> > > as
> > > > > to
> > > > > > what to look at or for would certainly be appreciated.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > John Heckman
> > > > > > central Pa
> > > > > > 1973 FC converted to 3208 CAT
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
> >
> > --
> > Curt Sprenger
> > 1987 PT38 8V92 "MacAttack Racing"
> > Anaheim Hills, CA
> >
> >
> > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> >
>
>
>



--
Curt Sprenger
1987 PT38 8V92 "MacAttack Racing"
Anaheim Hills, CA


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

[Curt Sprenger]

While I'm thinking about it...The governor is most likely mounted on a frame
member, main channel or cross member. That is where they are located on the
1986 and 1987 PTs. Kevin McKeowns was so well hidden it took a lot of
looking to find it. He relocated it to a convenient sport to make it
accessible for any future work.

On Dec 31, 2007 7:16 AM, Curt Sprenger wrote:

> I wish I could answer your question. Here is a link to an air governor
> picture. If there is a governor on your coach, I believe it will look like
> this one, probable an aluminum color, not gold.
>
>
>
http://velvac.thomasnet.com/viewitems/ai...ernor\
-d-2-style-
>
>
> On Dec 31, 2007 7:03 AM, bubblerboy64 wrote:
>
> > Ok, Where is the governor? You guys gotta remember I am pretty much
> > stupid on this stuff. The only thing on the compressor is what
> > appears to be a small filter housing on right side of the thing
> > looking into the engine bay from the front of the bus. Something
> > obviously opens and or controls the compressor because when it is
> > functioning I can hear it cycle on and off.
> >
> > John Heckman
> > central Pa
> > 1973 FC
> >
> > >
> > > My guess is it's the governor, assuming there is a governor on your
> > coach.
> > > Myself, others, have reported like problems and resolved the
> > problem by
> > > removing the old governor and installing a new (not rebuilt)
> > governor.
> > >
> > > On Dec 31, 2007 6:36 AM, bubblerboy64 wrote:
> > >
> > > > Well, I went out and started the bus and wouldn't you know it
> > the
> > > > compressor immediately kicked on and functioned as it should. It
> > > > cycled up to 125psi on the gauge and shut off and every thing
> > seems
> > > > fine. But we know that is not the case. Idea's thoughts anything
> > on
> > > > this with this little bit more information.
> > > > John Heckman
> > > > central Pa
> > > > 1973 FC
> > > > >
> > > > > I haven't had a chance to look into this today as yet. I
> > appeciate
> > > > > the help to this point. My question is what regulates the
> > > > > compressor? The pulley is spinning all the time but I can tell
> > by
> > > > the
> > > > > sound that it cycles on an off as far as a load.The compressor
> > > > > mounting rattles rather noisily when it is changing the tanks.
> > > > Does
> > > > > something close and open to fill the tanks? I have this idea
> > again
> > > > > perhaps I am wrong that this is electrical? Or as Gregory said
> > > > there
> > > > > is a valve sticking. Now where are the valves? In the top of the
> > > > > compressor. Remember this thing is bits and pieces of parts so
> > > > that
> > > > > makes it even more interesting. I had this occur before one time
> > > > and
> > > > > my shore batteries were down. I got the batteries charged up and
> > > > the
> > > > > compressor kicked in. Could be just lucky or a coincidence?
> > Seems
> > > > > like a leak would leak all the time rather then come and go. I
> > > > plan
> > > > > on fooling around here today with it so I will be back and
> > forth. I
> > > > > guess the first thing I will do is just start the bus and try
> > > > again.
> > > > > I need to figure this out because at some point its going to
> > stay
> > > > > broke. Likely at the worst possible time. So I need to
> > understand
> > > > > the system a little better.
> > > > > John Heckman
> > > > > central Pa
> > > > > 1973 FC
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > John, if the belt is tight and the compressor is spinning
> > check
> > > > the
> > > > > > key in the pully shaft???? you can also check to see if the
> > > > > > compressor head gets hot???
> > > > > >
> > > > > > If it is a leak it must be big. you can not hear it because it
> > > > > wont
> > > > > > build enough pressure to hiss and while the cat is running
> > there
> > > > is
> > > > > > too much noise to hear a big leak hiss. I would hook the aux
> > air
> > > > up
> > > > > > to a remote shop compressor and look for a leak that way.
> > build
> > > > a
> > > > > > male to mail fitting for a remote compressor line's female end
> > > > and
> > > > > > try and build up the tanks in the bus that way?????? I have
> > had
> > > > > > valves hang up that just needed a jolt of reverse air to get
> > thm
> > > > > > free.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > It could also be that there is a blockage in the compressor
> > > > output
> > > > > > line to the first tank
> > > > > >
> > > > > > GregoryO'Connor
> > > > > > 94ptRomolandCa
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In
WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
> > > > 40yahoogroups.com>,
> >
> > > > "bubblerboy64"
> > > > > > wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Upon trying to take the son-in-law for a turn in the bus I
> > > > found
> > > > > > that
> > > > > > > the compressor would not bring the air up to release the
> > > > brakes.
> > > > > > > Checked and the belt is Ok and the compressors seems to be
> > > > > turning
> > > > > > Ok.
> > > > > > > Is there a solenoid or a switch which activates and
> > deactivates
> > > > > > the
> > > > > > > compressor. I get about 30lbs on the air gauge but no more.
> > > > The
> > > > > > only
> > > > > > > other clue is that when the compressor is running normally
> > it
> > > > > > makes
> > > > > > > enough noise that I can hear it and it is not doing that.
> > > > Don't
> > > > > > know
> > > > > > > beans about what I am dealing with but any help or
> > suggestions
> > > > as
> > > > > > to
> > > > > > > what to look at or for would certainly be appreciated.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > John Heckman
> > > > > > > central Pa
> > > > > > > 1973 FC converted to 3208 CAT
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > --
> > > Curt Sprenger
> > > 1987 PT38 8V92 "MacAttack Racing"
> > > Anaheim Hills, CA
> > >
> > >
> > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
> --
> Curt Sprenger
> 1987 PT38 8V92 "MacAttack Racing"
> Anaheim Hills, CA
>



--
Curt Sprenger
1987 PT38 8V92 "MacAttack Racing"
Anaheim Hills, CA


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

[Gardner Yeaw]

The governor is mounted directly on the compressor. The governor
controls the compresser by recycling the air and thus the compressor
does not work hard when not needed. The drier will be mounted
elseware, perhaps in a frame member.

Gardner
78FC33


--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Curt Sprenger"
wrote:
>
> While I'm thinking about it...The governor is most likely mounted
on a frame
> member, main channel or cross member. That is where they are
located on the
> 1986 and 1987 PTs. Kevin McKeowns was so well hidden it took a lot
of
> looking to find it. He relocated it to a convenient sport to make it
> accessible for any future work.
>
> On Dec 31, 2007 7:16 AM, Curt Sprenger wrote:
>
> > I wish I could answer your question. Here is a link to an air
governor
> > picture. If there is a governor on your coach, I believe it will
look like
> > this one, probable an aluminum color, not gold.
> >
> >
> > http://velvac.thomasnet.com/viewitems/ai...air-brake-
valves/air-governor-d-2-style-
> >
> >
> > On Dec 31, 2007 7:03 AM, bubblerboy64 wrote:
> >
> > > Ok, Where is the governor? You guys gotta remember I am
pretty much
> > > stupid on this stuff. The only thing on the compressor is what
> > > appears to be a small filter housing on right side of the thing
> > > looking into the engine bay from the front of the bus. Something
> > > obviously opens and or controls the compressor because when it
is
> > > functioning I can hear it cycle on and off.
> > >
> > > John Heckman
> > > central Pa
> > > 1973 FC
> > >
> > > >
> > > > My guess is it's the governor, assuming there is a governor
on your
> > > coach.
> > > > Myself, others, have reported like problems and resolved the
> > > problem by
> > > > removing the old governor and installing a new (not rebuilt)
> > > governor.
> > > >
> > > > On Dec 31, 2007 6:36 AM, bubblerboy64 wrote:
> > > >
> > > > > Well, I went out and started the bus and wouldn't you know
it
> > > the
> > > > > compressor immediately kicked on and functioned as it
should. It
> > > > > cycled up to 125psi on the gauge and shut off and every
thing
> > > seems
> > > > > fine. But we know that is not the case. Idea's thoughts
anything
> > > on
> > > > > this with this little bit more information.
> > > > > John Heckman
> > > > > central Pa
> > > > > 1973 FC
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I haven't had a chance to look into this today as yet. I
> > > appeciate
> > > > > > the help to this point. My question is what regulates the
> > > > > > compressor? The pulley is spinning all the time but I can
tell
> > > by
> > > > > the
> > > > > > sound that it cycles on an off as far as a load.The
compressor
> > > > > > mounting rattles rather noisily when it is changing the
tanks.
> > > > > Does
> > > > > > something close and open to fill the tanks? I have this
idea
> > > again
> > > > > > perhaps I am wrong that this is electrical? Or as Gregory
said
> > > > > there
> > > > > > is a valve sticking. Now where are the valves? In the top
of the
> > > > > > compressor. Remember this thing is bits and pieces of
parts so
> > > > > that
> > > > > > makes it even more interesting. I had this occur before
one time
> > > > > and
> > > > > > my shore batteries were down. I got the batteries charged
up and
> > > > > the
> > > > > > compressor kicked in. Could be just lucky or a
coincidence?
> > > Seems
> > > > > > like a leak would leak all the time rather then come and
go. I
> > > > > plan
> > > > > > on fooling around here today with it so I will be back and
> > > forth. I
> > > > > > guess the first thing I will do is just start the bus and
try
> > > > > again.
> > > > > > I need to figure this out because at some point its going
to
> > > stay
> > > > > > broke. Likely at the worst possible time. So I need to
> > > understand
> > > > > > the system a little better.
> > > > > > John Heckman
> > > > > > central Pa
> > > > > > 1973 FC
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > John, if the belt is tight and the compressor is
spinning
> > > check
> > > > > the
> > > > > > > key in the pully shaft???? you can also check to see if
the
> > > > > > > compressor head gets hot???
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > If it is a leak it must be big. you can not hear it
because it
> > > > > > wont
> > > > > > > build enough pressure to hiss and while the cat is
running
> > > there
> > > > > is
> > > > > > > too much noise to hear a big leak hiss. I would hook
the aux
> > > air
> > > > > up
> > > > > > > to a remote shop compressor and look for a leak that
way.
> > > build
> > > > > a
> > > > > > > male to mail fitting for a remote compressor line's
female end
> > > > > and
> > > > > > > try and build up the tanks in the bus that way?????? I
have
> > > had
> > > > > > > valves hang up that just needed a jolt of reverse air
to get
> > > thm
> > > > > > > free.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > It could also be that there is a blockage in the
compressor
> > > > > output
> > > > > > > line to the first tank
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > GregoryO'Connor
> > > > > > > 94ptRomolandCa
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In
WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
> > > > > > 40yahoogroups.com>,
> > >
> > > > > "bubblerboy64"
> > > > > > > wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Upon trying to take the son-in-law for a turn in the
bus I
> > > > > found
> > > > > > > that
> > > > > > > > the compressor would not bring the air up to release
the
> > > > > brakes.
> > > > > > > > Checked and the belt is Ok and the compressors seems
to be
> > > > > > turning
> > > > > > > Ok.
> > > > > > > > Is there a solenoid or a switch which activates and
> > > deactivates
> > > > > > > the
> > > > > > > > compressor. I get about 30lbs on the air gauge but no
more.
> > > > > The
> > > > > > > only
> > > > > > > > other clue is that when the compressor is running
normally
> > > it
> > > > > > > makes
> > > > > > > > enough noise that I can hear it and it is not doing
that.
> > > > > Don't
> > > > > > > know
> > > > > > > > beans about what I am dealing with but any help or
> > > suggestions
> > > > > as
> > > > > > > to
> > > > > > > > what to look at or for would certainly be appreciated.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > John Heckman
> > > > > > > > central Pa
> > > > > > > > 1973 FC converted to 3208 CAT
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > --
> > > > Curt Sprenger
> > > > 1987 PT38 8V92 "MacAttack Racing"
> > > > Anaheim Hills, CA
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
> >
> > --
> > Curt Sprenger
> > 1987 PT38 8V92 "MacAttack Racing"
> > Anaheim Hills, CA
> >
>
>
>
> --
> Curt Sprenger
> 1987 PT38 8V92 "MacAttack Racing"
> Anaheim Hills, CA
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

[Gregory OConnor]

PeteM sent a link to a booklet on air brakes.
http://www.gnb.ca/0276/vehicle/pdf/ab_manual-e.pdf
On page 12 of the 77 page pdf booklet is a good explanation of the
compressor on and off operation. The book is generic which would be
best with a 'as built' system like you have. Understanding of the
contents of the book is a requirement for a Federal commercial
drivers license CDL. This book may be a good pdf file to down load
and save for reading.

You hear the compressor strain when it is loading the tanks with
air. The governer directs flow of the 'compressor discharge line'
Governer is set to direct the discharge line to load the tanks when
tank pressure falls to 85#. therefor when the gov starts refilling
the tanks, it is pushing air against a pressure of 85 from the start
and you hear the strain.
When the tank is at max pressure the governer direction of air
pumped by the full time compressor switches to 'Unload', there is no
strain because unload is a circular path of air from and to the
compressor. (the term unload is not a depletion of tank pressure)

I do not believe that any component of the air brake system is
electrical.


<snip from page 12>
The compressor is in constant drive with the engine.
Whenever the engine is running, so is the compressor.
When pressure in the system is adequate, anywhere
from a low of 80 psi to a high of 135 psi it is not necessary
for the compressor to pump air. A governor (2) controls the
minimum and maximum air pressure in the system by
controlling when the compressor pumps air. This is
known as the "loading" or "unloading" stage. Most
compressors have two cylinders similar to an engine's
cylinders. When the system pressure reaches its
maximum, which is between 115 and 135 psi, the
governor places the compressor in the "unloading"
stage.


GregoryO'Connor
94ptRomolandCa


--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "bubblerboy64"
wrote:
>
> Ok, Where is the governor? You guys gotta remember I am pretty
much
> stupid on this stuff. The only thing on the compressor is what
> appears to be a small filter housing on right side of the thing
> looking into the engine bay from the front of the bus. Something
> obviously opens and or controls the compressor because when it is
> functioning I can hear it cycle on and off.
> John Heckman
> central Pa
> 1973 FC
>
>
>
>
> >
> > My guess is it's the governor, assuming there is a governor on
your
> coach.
> > Myself, others, have reported like problems and resolved the
> problem by
> > removing the old governor and installing a new (not rebuilt)
> governor.
> >
> > On Dec 31, 2007 6:36 AM, bubblerboy64 wrote:
> >
> > > Well, I went out and started the bus and wouldn't you know
it
> the
> > > compressor immediately kicked on and functioned as it should.
It
> > > cycled up to 125psi on the gauge and shut off and every thing
> seems
> > > fine. But we know that is not the case. Idea's thoughts
anything
> on
> > > this with this little bit more information.
> > > John Heckman
> > > central Pa
> > > 1973 FC
> > > >
> > > > I haven't had a chance to look into this today as yet. I
> appeciate
> > > > the help to this point. My question is what regulates the
> > > > compressor? The pulley is spinning all the time but I can
tell
> by
> > > the
> > > > sound that it cycles on an off as far as a load.The
compressor
> > > > mounting rattles rather noisily when it is changing the
tanks.
> > > Does
> > > > something close and open to fill the tanks? I have this idea
> again
> > > > perhaps I am wrong that this is electrical? Or as Gregory
said
> > > there
> > > > is a valve sticking. Now where are the valves? In the top of
the
> > > > compressor. Remember this thing is bits and pieces of parts
so
> > > that
> > > > makes it even more interesting. I had this occur before one
time
> > > and
> > > > my shore batteries were down. I got the batteries charged up
and
> > > the
> > > > compressor kicked in. Could be just lucky or a coincidence?
> Seems
> > > > like a leak would leak all the time rather then come and go.
I
> > > plan
> > > > on fooling around here today with it so I will be back and
> forth. I
> > > > guess the first thing I will do is just start the bus and try
> > > again.
> > > > I need to figure this out because at some point its going to
> stay
> > > > broke. Likely at the worst possible time. So I need to
> understand
> > > > the system a little better.
> > > > John Heckman
> > > > central Pa
> > > > 1973 FC
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > John, if the belt is tight and the compressor is spinning
> check
> > > the
> > > > > key in the pully shaft???? you can also check to see if the
> > > > > compressor head gets hot???
> > > > >
> > > > > If it is a leak it must be big. you can not hear it
because it
> > > > wont
> > > > > build enough pressure to hiss and while the cat is running
> there
> > > is
> > > > > too much noise to hear a big leak hiss. I would hook the
aux
> air
> > > up
> > > > > to a remote shop compressor and look for a leak that way.
> build
> > > a
> > > > > male to mail fitting for a remote compressor line's female
end
> > > and
> > > > > try and build up the tanks in the bus that way?????? I
have
> had
> > > > > valves hang up that just needed a jolt of reverse air to
get
> thm
> > > > > free.
> > > > >
> > > > > It could also be that there is a blockage in the compressor
> > > output
> > > > > line to the first tank
> > > > >
> > > > > GregoryO'Connor
> > > > > 94ptRomolandCa
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com > 40yahoogroups.com>,
> > > "bubblerboy64"
> > > > > wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Upon trying to take the son-in-law for a turn in the bus
I
> > > found
> > > > > that
> > > > > > the compressor would not bring the air up to release the
> > > brakes.
> > > > > > Checked and the belt is Ok and the compressors seems to
be
> > > > turning
> > > > > Ok.
> > > > > > Is there a solenoid or a switch which activates and
> deactivates
> > > > > the
> > > > > > compressor. I get about 30lbs on the air gauge but no
more.
> > > The
> > > > > only
> > > > > > other clue is that when the compressor is running
normally
> it
> > > > > makes
> > > > > > enough noise that I can hear it and it is not doing that.
> > > Don't
> > > > > know
> > > > > > beans about what I am dealing with but any help or
> suggestions
> > > as
> > > > > to
> > > > > > what to look at or for would certainly be appreciated.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > John Heckman
> > > > > > central Pa
> > > > > > 1973 FC converted to 3208 CAT
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
> >
> > --
> > Curt Sprenger
> > 1987 PT38 8V92 "MacAttack Racing"
> > Anaheim Hills, CA
> >
> >
> > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> >
>

[Pete Masterson]

That is correct. The brake system has no electrical components other
than the switches that turn on/off the tail lights. All control and
actuation is done through air pressure changes as controlled by
various valves. Similarly, the air bags (suspension) also have no
primary electrical components other than the valves that 'dump' the
air and sensors that report pressure, or lack thereof, to the buzzers
and dash panel gauges.

A total electrical failure should not cause you any immediate
problems in the safe handling or braking of your coach -- at least,
not from either the brakes or suspension components.

The other air operated items may have an electrically operated valve,
such as the stair-well cover, the air-step, the bulk oil filler, the
dump valves, and the dryer vent. Each of these has an electric switch
that actuates an electrically operated valve to activate/deactivate
the item. The air-step has a microswitch (under the coach) that can
be a problem if it becomes clogged with dirt or otherwise is moved
out of position.

The main braking system is partially isolated from the non-essential
appliances, but leaks in the auxiliary systems can lead to an
eventual loss of brake pressure or the inability to air up the coach.

When the air system is working properly, the coach should remain
charged with air for several hours after shutting down, if the
suspension isn't dumped. Frequent cycling of the air step will
deplete the air more quickly. If the system doesn't hold air for 6 to
12 hours (or more), then it's time to go over all the air-actuated
systems to hunt for leaks. Note: this is _much_ longer than the
standard required by most DMVs. Here's the CA DMV air brake check
procedure:

In-Cab Air Brake Check

NOTE: All items marked with an asterisk (*) are critical parts of the
in-cab air brake test and must be demonstrated during DMV testing.
They may be performed in any order. If these items are not performed
correctly, it is considered an automatic failure of the pre-trip test.

Test air leakage rate. (* second test only)

* With a fully-charged air system (typically 125 p.s.i.), turn off
the engine, release the service brake (brakes off), and let the
system settle (air gauge needle stops moving). Time the air pressure
drop. The loss rate should not be greater than:
— 2 p.s.i. or less in one minute for single vehicles.
— 3 p.s.i. or less in one minute for a combination of two vehicles.
— 5 p.s.i. or less in one minute for a combination of three or more
vehicles.
If the loss is too much, check for air leaks and fix.

* With roughly a fully charged air system (typically 100-125 p.s.i.),
turn off the engine. Release all brakes and allow the system to
settle (air gauge needle stops moving). Then apply full steady
pressure to the brake pedal (brake on) and hold. After the system
settles again, the air loss should not be more than:
— 3 p.s.i. or less in one minute for single vehicles.
— 4 p.s.i. or less in one minute for a combination of two vehicles.
— 6 p.s.i. or less in one minute for a combination of three or more
vehicles.
If the air loss is too much, check for air leaks and fix. For testing
purposes, identify if the air loss rate is too much.

*Check air compressor governor cut-out pressure. Pumping should start
at about 100 p.s.i. and stop at about 125 p.s.i. (130 p.s.i.
maximum). Run the engine at a fast idle. The air governor should cut-
out the air compressor at about the manufacturer's specified
pressure. The air pressure shown by your gauge(s) will stop rising.
For testing purposes, identify when the compressor cuts out.

*Check air compressor governor cut-in pressure. Start with the air
pressure above the governor cut-in level (no lower than 85 p.s.i.).
With the engine idling, slowly pump the brake pedal to reduce the air
tank pressure. Watch the air gauge between pumps to identify when the
compressor cuts in (needle starts to rise). This should be at about
the manufacturer's specified cut-in pressure. If the air governor
does not work as described, it may not keep enough air pressure for
safe driving. For testing purposes, identify when the compressor cuts
in.

NOTE: To perform this test correctly, the compressor cannot already
be pumping air. If it is, allow the governor to cut-out before
performing this test.

A full discussion of air brakes and their operation from the CA DMV
Commercial Drivers License booklet can be seen at:
<http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/cdl_htm/sec5_a.htm>

Pete Masterson
'95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42
El Sobrante CA
aeonix1@...



On Dec 31, 2007, at 7:49 AM, Gregory OConnor wrote:

> <snip>
> I do not believe that any component of the air brake system is
> electrical.
>


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]