Posted by The Brake Report | Oct 3, 2022

AVON, Ohio –The devastating floods in Florida resulting from Hurricane Ian will require massive relief and rebuilding efforts – many of which depend on the trucking industry and thousands of truck drivers. For commercial vehicles exposed to these types of floodwaters, this installment of the Bendix Tech Tips series provides fleets and drivers with technical advice on inspecting and possibly reconditioning air brake, wheel-end, and other safety components that have been partially or completely submerged.

The first determination to make is whether the water affecting the vehicle was salt water or fresh water. If it was salt water, you’ll need to immediately begin replacing parts due to its extreme corrosivity, which can remove lubrication and put certain parts at much higher risk for unexpected and premature malfunction.

Any brake system valve that has been submerged in salt water must be replaced. In addition, systems and components including air compressors, air reservoirs, antilock brake system (ABS) relays, modulators, and brake actuators must also be replaced. Talk to your Bendix account manager or call the Bendix Tech Team for complete details.

“Saltwater corrosion is also a threat to wheel-ends, since it increases the likelihood of rust jacking and accelerates corrosion of critical surfaces,” said Randy Salvatora, engineering manager – Vehicle Systems. “So, we recommend complete replacement of the foundation brakes to prevent a potential future failure. And if it’s not clear whether the water was fresh or salt, play it safe and follow the saltwater guidelines.”

Additionally, when replacing any pneumatic system components that have been subjected to flood conditions, disconnect all contaminated air tubes and hoses, flush them with clean water, and blow them out with air pressure to remove contaminants.

If you’re certain the power unit or trailer was submerged in fresh water, begin by carefully power-washing the vehicle – including the foundation brakes.

Be cautious while cleaning: Rubber parts and sealing interfaces should not be directly sprayed with the high-pressure jet. Irreparable damage to valves will occur when a high-pressure washer directly sprays exhaust ports.

Appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is recommended while washing or working on flooded vehicles, whether salt water or fresh. In the unapplied state, most valves have the delivery open to atmosphere at the exhaust port, so if any exhaust port is submerged, the water has infiltrated the system and can lead to future malfunction.

Do not attempt to start a vehicle if fresh water has entered the air compressor or dryer through the air system intakes.

•           Vehicle valving

         Inspect each component in the pneumatic brake and accessory systems.

         Drain any pressure remaining in the service reservoirs.

         Mark and remove all pneumatic and electrical connectors at each valve.

         Check for evidence of water or contamination inside the connectors, air hoses, or the component itself.

         Carefully use dry compressed air pressure (from a stationary compressor or similar) to blow air through the pneumatic tubes and hoses. Watch for evidence of water or contamination.

         If water or contamination is found inside the component, replace the component.

         If no evidence of water or contamination is found inside the component, reassemble the component to the associated lines and fittings.

         Repeat this process as you continue to inspect all the valves in the air brake system. Replace any nonfunctioning valves or those showing evidence of ingestion of water or contaminants.

         Inspect tractor and trailer glad hands and the supply and control hoses. Water and contaminants frequently enter the air brake system through unprotected glad hands.

•           Charging system

         Inspect the air intake, compressor, and air dryer for signs of water or contaminant ingestion.

         Carefully use dry compressed air pressure (from a stationary compressor or similar) to blow air through the pneumatic tubing and watch for evidence of water or contamination.

         Use dry compressed air from a stationary air compressor (or suitable portable unit) to get any residual water out of the service tanks.

         Air dryers remove moisture in compressed air, but they will not remove moisture that’s present in the system beyond the service tanks.

         After reconnecting pneumatic lines, install a new or properly serviced air dryer to aid in removing any residual moisture from the air inlet.

If you find signs of moisture or other contamination, all the pneumatic air brake components should be replaced: Once water or contaminants get into any of the air brake components, it’s impossible to completely clear the system without total disassembly. Consider also the guidance included in the TMC Recommended Practice 617A for contaminant elimination procedure for tractor, trailer, or dolly air brake systems.

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