Air Brake Help

[Ski Patroller Geo]

Hi, friends. First post here.

I just bought an 82 Thomas diesel pusher. It starts and runs like a dream. Problem is the air brake compressor needs repair or replacement.

The seller was super helpful and even showed me where to attach an air hose to pressurize the tanks with a portable gas powered compressor, which I will need to do to move it.

My conundrum is he said I'd need 150 psi to do the job but I can't find anyone who rents such an animal.

Does that pressure sound accurate?

[CHEESE_WAGON]

20-40 psi to release the spring brake for towing.
60-85 to deactivate the low air warning if key switch needs to be on (unlikely for towing).
90-120 is normal system pressure for driving.
150 is system limit (safety valve relieves pressure to 90-120).

I recommend you have it towed for repair or repaired on site. Do NOT drive with an air system problem -- it is unsafe.

[Ski Patroller Geo]

Eeeexcellent. Thanks for those numbers.

Also, I'll heed your towing advise.

[Booyah45828]

If you're having it towed, let the tow company and driver worry/handle it. They can tow it to their shop and repair the compressor for you then.

[CHEESE_WAGON]

Originally Posted by Ski Patroller Geo

Eeeexcellent. Thanks for those numbers.

Also, I'll heed your towing advise.

Originally Posted by Booyah45828

If you're having it towed, let the tow company and driver worry/handle it. They can tow it to their shop and repair the compressor for you then.

Yeah, I was going to say, do not attempt to tow this thing yourself unless you are qualified and have the right equipment, it probably needs a Class 7 truck with 8-10-ton boom, minimum.