Air suspension question?

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by krpv, Nov 3, 2013.

  1. krpv

    krpv Light Load Member

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    Oct 26, 2012
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    Im trying to learn more about trucks and have a couple questions:
    Is there a specific switch to dump air out of the front and rear suspensions?
    When I set lets say the trailer brake does that raise the suspension?
    If I pump the breaks and all the air goes out of the tanks does that lower the suspension?
     
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  3. DL550CAT

    DL550CAT Road Train Member

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    1st are you referring to the truck or trailer? Most trucks can dump the air on the drive axles some are set up to dump one or more trailer axles.
    When you set the trailer brakes some dump the air on the trailer which would lower it.
    Last question only if it has a leak after the leveling valve will the air suspension drop from lack of air.
     
    krpv Thanks this.
  4. krpv

    krpv Light Load Member

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    Oct 26, 2012
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    Yeah I meant the truck and trailer
    So when Im lowering the 5th wheel Im dumping the air on the drives?
     
  5. Poneill.45

    Poneill.45 Bobtail Member

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    Jul 17, 2013
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    That's right. Some trucks have an extra switch to to dump the trailer air susp., but its an add on.
     
  6. Richter

    Richter Road Train Member

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    Philadelphia Pa
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    It depends on the configuration of the truck and trailer. MOST trucks have a switch that dumps the suspension on both the drive axles. When you push in the red know it inflates the trailer. When you pull it, some trailer dump their air, some hold it. If you run out of air, suspension should deflate, unless it has some kind of check valve. It should auto adjust psi to maintiain height when load weight changes. Some trucks have a dump valve switch. when coupled with a compatible trailer they can dump one of the trailer axles air. This can help make smoother turns on a split axle trailer. Some have dual dump valves so they can dum the forn, rear or botht he trailer axles. Unless you have air ride front, your steer is most likly a leaf spring and thus cant be dumped.

    If parking in bad wind, dump the tractor air with the in cab switch and pull your red knob to dump the trailer. it should be less bouncy in the wind this way.
     
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