Can I keep going?

You do need to be driving that anywhere

 

Dumb question alert--

when the can is loose like that now, is the spring inside stretched out to the max meaning in the 'brake set' postion? But I get it, since it is loose there's no way for the springs to push on the rod that compresses the linings to the drums-- the can pushes away instead.

 

Sorry it missed a word. There is absolutely no way you need to move that anywhere!

 

If it was my rig, I'd just cage it and put some vice grips on the service line into the chamber. Then tie it up with a couple bungee cords. Of course I would be making an immediate trip to the nearest shop to get the bracket welded back on. If its a company truck, I wouldn't be going anywhere. Let the boss man figure it out.

 

Don't know who owns it but is the chamber not hanging by the hoses. Also don't know how far it is to a shop. It would be better off removed and plugged to get to a shop than ran like that. If the hoses break you will come to a halt.

 

They just scaled out, so they should be in a truck stop...

 

The can will still function as if it is still attached...it just won't be able to exert any force on the pushrod.

 

yeah but if there isn't a shop there then call one.

 

At least the guy saw it, give him kudos for that. Most drivers would have took off and not known why his brakes were smoking and trailer catches on fire.

 

I agree.