[A/S] Re: 77 Excella Brake system conversion?

["Andrew Rogozinski" <andyrogozinski@xxxxxxxxx>]

Dave.

Converting the disc brakes back to electric brakes, is taking a giant 
step backwards.

Adding a small vacuum pump is really not effective, in that it 
provides an inadeqaute amount of vacuum. Generally speaking, after 
you hit your brakes about three times, "the vacuum is gone". Simply 
put, you will not have any brakes.

The simple fix that still allows you to use your trailers disc 
brakes, is to remove the present actuator assembly from the front of 
the trailer, and install a new type actuator. Actuators today operate 
electrically and do not need a source of vacuum like your present set 
up must have.

Use caution when purchasing a replacement actuator. The best is made 
by "Actibrake' and costs about $800.00 for the "correct" model. There 
are cheaper actuators, but they will not deliver the proper pressure 
that your Airstream requires.

Additionally, there are others that unfortunately, have a high 
failure rate.

We started using the Actibrake with the Kodiak disc brake system some 
time back. The Airstream factory, is now using the same systems on 
some of the new trailers.

As we understand it, Airstream has switched to Dexter axles, but they 
do not want Dexter disc brake systems, for a number of engineering 
reasons.

Andy
Inland RV Center, Inc.