Slack adjusters are used to adjust the wear of s-cam brakes on trailers and trucks. They are part of the brakes and are located on the axle next to each wheel of the vehicle. Many of the new class 8 trucks come with automatic slack adjusters that do not require any adjustment. But how do you install them? Here are the steps:
1) Remove Retainer Mechanism – Truck and trailer brakes come with a retainer mechanism that mounts to the end of the brake camshaft. First, remove the retention mechanism using the mechanical kit.
2) Now slide the adjuster to the end of the brake shaft. Then turn the adjuster until it can no longer be moved. We need to make sure that the adjuster and pushrod are at a 90 degree angle. Also make sure there is somewhere to add fat.
3) After installing the adjuster on the camshaft, install the retaining mechanism on the end of the shaft. Then turn the adjusting screw and align the hole in the yoke pin with the hole in the arm. Then you can install the yoke pin in the mechanism.
4) You can now check the slack adjuster setting by applying the brake. When the brake is applied, check the angle that the lash adjuster makes with the pushrod. This should be a bit higher than 90 degrees. We must ensure that the adjuster is well greased at all times. The lubrication should be checked every twenty-five thousand files. This will improve the life of your lash adjuster.
