2018 and older coaches with comfort steer

[Neal]

I just called the FL help line (800 385-4357) and was told the following (by Derrick):

This problem has primarily been with 2016 and 2017 IFS coaches. When PS hoses are replaced, they also do the wiring modification, although he said it isn’t really a harness - just a wiring change so that the PS system is not pressurized when the parking brake is set.

He said this is an easy job that should take less than an hour shouldn’t be very expensive. He also said he has never heard of it being done preemptively and never seen the issue on straight axle coaches. I’ll still call Sac Truck tomorrow and get their version and bring that info back here.

Thanks for reaching out for factual information. I think you've calmed down many here, including self, and not having everyone chasing down this $750 fix when it may not apply to some.

 

[Rich W.]

I wonder why IFS makes any difference. Interesting.

I should have asked but I didn’t get the impression I was going to get in-depth info on the help line. I also didn’t sense a great deal of concern but I’ll still follow up and if there is an improvement that can help prevent being stranded I’m all for it. I’ve often wondered if CD causes premature wear on the PS pump because it‘s working almost constantly as opposed to conventional systems that are more or less “in neutral” when the steering is centered, although this “fix” wouldn’t address question.

 

[Neal]

Just haven't really heard much of this issue. Doesn't mean it's not happening, just never got my attention in trying to keep up with what's going on. With my string of luck lately I'll probably report back next stop with this issue

 

[Rich W.]

Heck Neal I am still learning after three years, and will probably never know everything I need to.

I agree - I doubt I’ll ever stop learning about the care and maintenance of all the systems, equipment, and components on these things.

 

[Rich W.]

Just haven't really heard much of this issue. Doesn't mean it's not happening, just never got my attention in trying to keep up with what's going on. With my string of luck lately I'll probably report back next stop with this issue

My luck hasn’t been that great lately either (but I did learn a lot about boost levels and exhaust temp) - I don’t want to be wondering if a blown power steering hose is in my future….

 

[Rich W.]

I talked to the service writer at my local FL dealer (Sacramento Truck Center) yesterday about this and he said he hadn’t heard a word about it, ever. But he said he’d look into it for me and let me know what he found. I might call a couple other bigger shops I’ve used and see what they say. If I can get this done (parking brake turning the PS pump) I’ll do it because it sounds like a good idea, but I’m not going to consider it urgent.