Adjusting Surge Brakes?

[Paul Zetlmaier]

I installed a new Titan Model 60 hitch and disc brakes. The brakes locked after thefirst two miles so I let off some pressure with the bleeds. So far I have to do thatabout every ten miles or so. Where did I go wrong?

 

[Ross Terry]

sounds like master cylinder travel

needs to be adjusted. the plunger that actuates the master cylinder should have a little slack in it when the hitch has no pressure on it.The piston in the master cylinder needs to return to the fully off position for the brake fluid in the system to return to the reservoir and release all the pressure. If it does not the system will build pressure after a few actuation strokes and the brakes will drag.

 

[Paul Zetlmaier]

Thanks Terry

That sounds reasonable. What there is of theusers manual (damn thin) says there are no adjustments, but I think I see one!Good sailing to you it's going to be a fine summer

 

[Ted]

Dicks brakes require a special master cylinder

the master cylinder for disc brakes is different from drum brakes in that there is not a "back-flow check valve" with disc brakes.I suspect that you have a brake coupler (ie master cylinder) that is meant for drum brakes, and has the check valve. Therefore as the surge brakes are applied (happens constantly when towing), they never release all the way. After a few miles they (the discs) are fully engaged.You can modify a drum type coupler by removing the check valve, or you can buy a coupler that is design for dick's brakes.That Dick is a funny guy.Regards,Ted

 

[Paul Zetlmaier]

check valve

Thanks Ted, the coupler has a sticker on it"for disc brakes only" Maybe I can get one forDicks brakes *sry could the back flow be clogged or something?