6. Check The Relay Valves
Being an air-operated valve – the relay valve is usually using in air brake systems. Via these air brake systems the control of the brakes at the rear of the trailer are being remotely controlled.
Since the step deck trailer has relay valves- the truck drivers who are going to operate with these trailers should have in mind that the valves should conform all applicable electrical, mechanical, and other kind of installation properly.
When you are looking for a step deck trailer- the inspection of the relay valve must be included. If you want to inspect visually the relay valve of the step deck trailer, you will have to do a operating performance altogether with a leakage test, if you want to have a clear picture of the relay valves’ condition.
Source: www.fortprousa.com
Henceforth, if you want to buy used step deck trailer you will have to reassure yourself that the trailer you want to buy if in an operable condition, and in that point of view the relay valves play an important role.
If the trailer dealer allows you- you can do a detailed relay valve inspection. While doing the relay valve inspection you should be precautious, because the compressed air altogether with the hydraulic systems are composed of high level of stored energy. Therefore when the system is under pressure do not even attempt to do an inspection because it can result into injury.
Thereupon if the previous trailer owner has maintained the trailer properly, if he has done regular inspections, lubrication, and cleaning, than you will notice it straight away. If you find a step deck trailer which has maintained relay valves- do not hesitate- buy it , because most of the people that are owning and that are operating with step deck trailer most of the cases are not doing a proper maintenance to these parts.