67Cutlass wrote:
kalsbeek wrote:
Hi,
I have had the same issue on both my FL chassis motorhomes.
The problem lies in the rollers that push the shoes into the drums.
The drums need to be removed and the actuator rollers cleaned and lubricated. Google "FL BRAKES" and it shows them.
Suspension bushings are never the issue.
I have done it myself both times and the hardest part is removing the wheel. There are no hydraulics or fluids to worry about.
Good luck and let us know how you make out please.
Freightliner referres to the rollers you mentioned as 'S' cams. When these S cams need lubrication the front brakes will clunk while stopping. Typically just before you come to a complete stop. On our previous mh, on a Freightliner chassis, required the S cams be lube about every 2/3 years.
I don't remember if the S cam lubrication was part of regular scheduled maintenance or performed on an as needed basis.
Just to clarify a couple of things here.
1. "S Cams" and rollers are TWO different components in the air brake application.
2. The S cams are on the end of the brake can actuation shaft and as the brakes are applied, the S cams rotate.
3. The ROLLERS are in between the S cams and the shoes. They ROLL on the S-cam and due to the design of the "S", the rollers roll outward can therefore, cause the shoes to press against the drums.
To the OP,
First, just EXACTLY when does the "CLUNKING" happen? Is it when just applying the brakes while driving at really slow speeds in places like parking lots, city streets, any condition where light to intermediate brake pressure is needed? If so, then yes, it's most likely the rollers that are in need of LIGHT lubing. And, if that's the case, the job is not overly technical but, it does require SOME technical abilities and, the proper tools for removal and replacement of the highly torqued lug nuts.
If, your clunking happens without the brake application, at any speed, it's NOT THE BRAKE ROLLERS or the S-Cams.
Scott
