Forum Discussion

cdlaine's avatar
cdlaine
Explorer
Jan 25, 2016

Diagnostic opinions.....

so , here is the scenario....

In tow haul today (towing) on the interstate (cruise control at 55) ... approached the off ramp ... started to apply brake, heard the loudest ear piercing screech which lasted until complete stop, then did not reoccur. Popped the hood, all belts (visible) intact, nothing visible appeared problematic. Put hand on all hubs...no heat. All fluid levels within normal limits. Truck operating fine. No warning lights. I'm suspecting belt, brake or bearing, and hope not the Allison.

where would you start ? Thanks.

full disclosure.... topped off power steering fluid last week... accidentally over-filled, had some leak. There , I said it.

Charles
Tow Vehicles
  • Turtle_n_Peeps's avatar
    Turtle_n_Peeps
    Explorer
    Jan 25, 2016
    Could only be about a billion things. :W

    Two things come to my mind.

    #1 Idler pulley beaing.

    #2. Rock stuck in the disk brake pad.
  • cdlaine's avatar
    cdlaine
    Explorer
    Jan 25, 2016
    Turtle and Peeps...

    Agree... at least a billion according to my internet searches.

    ... my bride and I both swear it came from the engine compartment.

    I'll start with having brakes and belts checked... then move on to the more expensive things....schiznets !!!!

    Charles
  • BenK's avatar
    BenK
    Explorer
    Jan 25, 2016
    2500HD, so hydroboost (shares power steering pump/fluid)

    Over filled steering pump reservoir

    That fluid gets HOT and has it's own external aux cooler (coiled fin)

    Over filled will have it push up and out when HOT and you were in TH out on
    the freeway...

    Betcha the fluid was splashed out and onto the belts and slicked by that fluid
    to SCREECH when the pulley's demanded more power...like pressing on the brake
    pedal...tells the power steering pump to supply more fluid volume/PSI...the
    slicked belt squealed till it burned off the fluid...
  • cdlaine's avatar
    cdlaine
    Explorer
    Jan 25, 2016
    Ben...

    Thanks for the description of my self inflicted pain. I got distracted while topping off the reservoir. I included my confession because I believe you are correct.... that having been said, Turtle and Peeps "rock" problem is a distinct possibility...

    this weekends camp..thanks again, to the shop tomorrow for check out.

    Charles
  • IDoMyOwnStunts's avatar
    IDoMyOwnStunts
    Explorer
    Jan 25, 2016
    I've had a rock in the rotor before. Sounds exactly like you described, but the tell tale sign was the distinct round groove in the rotor. If your rotors look fine, I'd search elsewhere.
  • cdlaine's avatar
    cdlaine
    Explorer
    Jan 25, 2016
    Stunts..

    I'll be sure to have them checked. I honestly hadn't considered
    the possibility, but it seems some here have experience with same...
    so, worth investigating. Thanks.

    Charles
  • cdlaine's avatar
    cdlaine
    Explorer
    Jan 25, 2016
    ok..the rest of the story....I hope.

    "Power steering over-filled more then a quart, drain excess fluid and set level to proper level.

    Check belt and tensioner, OK.

    Road test no abnormal noise"

    "Check brakes... good condition... Front brakes 10 mm, rear brakes 8mm."

    "all fluids ok...automatic transmission diagnosis ..check and adjust"

    also asked them to check ride rite air bags... slow pressure leak... (squirted with soapy water... no leak found)
    normally leaks at site of pressure tubing junction with valve.

    so... nothing catastrophic found , the Chevy dealer suspects the power steering fluid on the belt.

    I also took truck on to freeway for test drive... no problems noted.

    So, my fault. :B

    No charge.

    Charles
  • IDoMyOwnStunts's avatar
    IDoMyOwnStunts
    Explorer
    Jan 26, 2016
    Good to hear that there was no charge and no damage. Those are the best type of dealer visits!

About Travel Trailer Group

44,029 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 18, 2025