2003 Volvo VNL, I am experiencing front brakes drag

Discussion in 'Heavy Duty Diesel Truck Mechanics Forum' started by Magnat1976, Sep 29, 2025.

  1. Magnat1976

    Magnat1976 Bobtail Member

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    Nov 4, 2023
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    Hello ,I need advise ,I am experiencing front brakes drag,new slacks,new shoes,new brake hardware,new s cams,bushings, new foot valve,brake drums slightly used..when I back off slack adjusters 1/8-1/4 turn,its much better, but they are overadjusting quickly
    Will it wear in ?
    2003 volvo vnl ,meritor q brakes
     
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  3. JB7

    JB7 Heavy Load Member

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    Laurel, MD
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    Check or replace the Quick Release valve. You don't say if you have antilock brakes. In that case it may be a different valve.
    upload_2025-9-30_7-40-5.png upload_2025-9-30_7-40-50.png
     
    Star Rider Thanks this.
  4. Magnat1976

    Magnat1976 Bobtail Member

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    Nov 4, 2023
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    Hi I do have Abs..quick release valve at rear?for parking?that i have new...
     
  5. JB7

    JB7 Heavy Load Member

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    Laurel, MD
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    Follow the line from each front brake chamber. They will go to a valve like the ones pictured or the QR may be part of the antilock valve. Once you find the valve (near the center of the front axle) follow the airline that feeds it to see if there is another valve. You can have a helper push on the brake pedal and then watch each brake to see what happens. Is there a delay in releasing? Also crawl under to see which valve exhausts and if that is releasing all at once or if it is slow causing the drag.
     
    Star Rider Thanks this.
  6. Magnat1976

    Magnat1976 Bobtail Member

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    Nov 4, 2023
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    Thank you
     
    JB7 Thanks this.
  7. Star Rider

    Star Rider Road Train Member

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    Sep 23, 2019
    Michigan
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    If they are over adjusting check the length of the new slacks holes against the old, 5" vs 5 1/2" would really ruin your day.
    On some styles you have to set the adjuster pointer to the notch.
    A couple of things to check.
     
    JB7 Thanks this.
  8. Star Rider

    Star Rider Road Train Member

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    Also, did you put standard 'Q' shoes on when they should have been 'Q+' ?
     
  9. Magnat1976

    Magnat1976 Bobtail Member

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    Nov 4, 2023
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    Installed q+ shoes
     
  10. Magnat1976

    Magnat1976 Bobtail Member

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    Nov 4, 2023
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    Old ones were 5.5 and new ones same length
     
  11. Magnat1976

    Magnat1976 Bobtail Member

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    Nov 4, 2023
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    Yes
     
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