Yesterday, 09:35 PM
Overview of RE-6 Emergency Relay Valve
The RE-6 emergency relay valve, often found on trailers such as the Phelan tilt bed tag trailer, is a dual-function air valve integral to the air brake system. It performs two critical roles:
Issue with RE-6 Valve
One of the notable issues reported with the RE-6 valve is its sluggish release of the spring brakes. The slow release can cause delays in trailer maneuvering, operational inefficiencies, and potential safety concerns if brakes do not disengage promptly.
Considering a Multi-Function Valve Upgrade
Multi-function valves integrate multiple air control operations into a single unit. Upgrading from an RE-6 to a modern multi-function valve may offer:
Operators replacing RE-6 valves with newer multi-function valves report marked improvements in brake release times and overall system responsiveness. However, they emphasize the importance of proper installation including air line layout adjustments to realize these benefits. Anecdotal experience suggests professional installation reduces troubleshooting and guarantees compliance with safety standards.
Conclusion
Upgrading an RE-6 emergency relay valve to a multi-function valve on trailers like Phelan tilt bed tag trucks can resolve nuisance issues such as slow spring brake release and improve overall air brake system performance. A simple replacement is possible in some cases, but more often re-plumbing is necessary to accommodate enhanced valve functions. Careful planning and professional installation are recommended to ensure a seamless and safe transition.
The RE-6 emergency relay valve, often found on trailers such as the Phelan tilt bed tag trailer, is a dual-function air valve integral to the air brake system. It performs two critical roles:
- Relay Function: Under normal braking, it amplifies and relays the driver's brake signal to quickly apply service brakes on the trailer.
- Emergency Function: It monitors the air supply line pressure, and if the pressure drops below a set threshold (indicating a leak or disconnection), it automatically applies the trailer spring brakes to prevent uncontrolled movement.
Issue with RE-6 Valve
One of the notable issues reported with the RE-6 valve is its sluggish release of the spring brakes. The slow release can cause delays in trailer maneuvering, operational inefficiencies, and potential safety concerns if brakes do not disengage promptly.
Considering a Multi-Function Valve Upgrade
Multi-function valves integrate multiple air control operations into a single unit. Upgrading from an RE-6 to a modern multi-function valve may offer:
- Faster brake release: Improved internal design and quicker air response.
- Simplified plumbing: Reduces the number of components and connections, potentially easing maintenance.
- Enhanced functionality: Additional features like integrated protection valves and volume boosters.
- Compatibility: Confirm the multi-function valve matches or exceeds existing RE-6 valve specifications and trailer system parameters.
- Plumbing Changes: Unlike a direct plug-and-play swap, multi-function valves often require re-routing or additional connections to accommodate their combined functions.
- Professional Assessment: Evaluate existing system architecture to determine if re-plumbing is minimal or extensive.
- Testing: Post-installation system pressure tests and functional checks must be performed to verify proper brake behavior.
- Spring Brakes: Mechanical brakes held off by air pressure and applied by spring force when air is lost.
- Relay Valve: Responds to control signals to apply or release service brakes.
- Emergency Valve: Activates spring brakes automatically upon air supply failure.
- Multi-Function Valve: Integrated valve unit performing multiple air brake control functions.
- Reservoir Mount: Valve mounted directly on the air reservoir tank.
Operators replacing RE-6 valves with newer multi-function valves report marked improvements in brake release times and overall system responsiveness. However, they emphasize the importance of proper installation including air line layout adjustments to realize these benefits. Anecdotal experience suggests professional installation reduces troubleshooting and guarantees compliance with safety standards.
Conclusion
Upgrading an RE-6 emergency relay valve to a multi-function valve on trailers like Phelan tilt bed tag trucks can resolve nuisance issues such as slow spring brake release and improve overall air brake system performance. A simple replacement is possible in some cases, but more often re-plumbing is necessary to accommodate enhanced valve functions. Careful planning and professional installation are recommended to ensure a seamless and safe transition.
