The 550 had a good couple days

[jtb51b]

Over the last couple weeks I have been hunting the reason for my seemingly weak and not so fuel efficient f550.. During this time I found a plug disconnected (broken actually) under the hood. After some discussion it was suggested (and later confirmed) that it was the EBPV plug. During the hunt for this connection I also read page after page of EBPV issues and in a lot of them it was also suggested that the turbo boots be checked. I decided once I determined that the EBPV was in the open position to tighten all of these clamps with VERY good results. The engine seems to be much more powerful and smoother running, not sure exactly which one was leaking but apparently there was a good sized leak somewhere. The truck will now hold 65 mph on the interstate without being floored to do so. If I am pulling a grade at 60 I can now push the pedal and feel (and hear) the turbo spool up and begin accelerating. I believe this will also help fuel mileage quite a bit..

I also have never had a parking brake on this truck from day one, PO said it was that way when he got it and was told that the pads were worn down when it was only a few months old by a non-driver running the roads with them on. I had to change an inside tire valve stem so once I got the back wheels off and the tire fixed I began looking at the brakes. There are no adjustments anywhere in the system, BUT while chasing the cable forward to make sure of that--- I found the problem. The cam that is connected to the foot pedal for the cable to ride on had separated and allowed the cable to fall between the halves, no longer producing the needed motion to set the brakes. It took a LONG while to get the pedal assy. out of the cab. I had to cut the cable in order to do so. So after a 26$ cable, a couple hours R&R, and about 10 mins work with the MIG--- I HAVE A PARKING BRAKE!!! I think I will have to put some miles on the old girl this week just to celebrate.

Just thought I would share.

Jason

[Schnot]

Congrats The DOT man frowns upon a non-working parking brake.

Also there is an adjustment for them. Theres a little slot on the bottom of the brake backing plate. In there, there is a little gear that you turn with a brake spoon or screw driver and that will adjust the brakes. Works the same as a trailer brake or old drum brakes. They are not self adjusting so you have to actually get out and do it every so often when the brake doesnt hold tight.

[jtb51b]

Originally Posted by Schnot

Congrats The DOT man frowns upon a non-working parking brake.

Also there is an adjustment for them. Theres a little slot on the bottom of the brake backing plate. In there, there is a little gear that you turn with a brake spoon or screw driver and that will adjust the brakes. Works the same as a trailer brake or old drum brakes. They are not self adjusting so you have to actually get out and do it every so often when the brake doesnt hold tight.

Well thats the darndest thing. I looked for a star wheel behind the plug but there was not one. Maybe I missed it but it sure just looked like a link. Either way it worked out well as it only takes a little over half a pedal to set far enough to stall.. On a side note, its a farm truck which in Alabama kinda exempts me from the DOT man. I will be hauling some logs from my spot to my grandfathers in Atlanta so as soon as I cross the state line our rules go out the window so its good to have done!

Jason