Airstream Recall on 2005-2009 Classics

[ROBERT CROSS]

Originally Posted by Morgan guy

I purchased my 2007 Classic in June of this year and noticed the active brake actuator and read about it. It sounded like a good addition. I started reading this thread today and the more I read the more terrified I got. Just finished a 5000 mile trip last month. I went out to get my VIN no. to call AS tomorrow. Looking at the brake actuator, I saw a bunch of loose wires. I then traced the brake lines to the wheels and find they don't connect to anything. I have drum brakes and apparently standard electric brakes, so I removed the Active Brake actuator ( more storage space). I guess AS installed the actuator on all classics regardless of whether they were to be used or not. Not sure but my fears have been reduced.

PO probably changed them out after having problems and never bothered to remove the actibrake.

Bob

[nvestysly]

Originally Posted by nvestysly

I did some troubleshooting today and realized the brake controller is reseting itself when I stop and start the tow vehicle engine. I've tried to contact Hayes (I have a Genesis controller) but nobody has called back yet.

On a related note. I called Kodiak since it's their brand of disc brakes. They don't test controllers. They leave that up to the actuator company or installer. However, Kodiak indicated their suggestion for actuator is Carlisle or BrakeRite. The person I spoke to at Kodiak indicated they had not tested Dexter. That does not mean Dexter will not work. Of course this should all be confirmed for your situation as information like this has a way of changing.

I also spoke to Airstream in Jackson Center. Their first choice for aftermarket brake actuators is Dexter (since ActiBrake does not exist any more). The technician recommended the Hayes Genesis controller as first choice and Tekonsha P3 as the second choice with aftermarket disc brakes.

I'll keep you posted.

Lucius

Our problems were entirely with the Hayes brake controller. Hayes sent a new unit and I installed it per their detailed instructions. The Hayes unit was covered under lifetime warranty - WOW! - so there was no cost to me. A big thanks to the Hayes people and products.

We've subsequently had the ActiBrake "inspection" performed and no problems were found. For now we'll keep going as is. If it ain't broke don't fix it.

Lucius

[GCinSC2]

Lucius,

Just for grins, you might want to take a look at my ActiBrake "cutaway" you can see the fluid soaked control board, long story, this one "passed" inspection, but it was drilled wrong. I moved on to Carlisle.

Only suggestion I have, if yours has been inspected and passed, just keep an eye out for brake fluid weeping out of the inspection hole.

Gary

[nvestysly]

Originally Posted by GCinSC2

Only suggestion I have, if yours has been inspected and passed, just keep an eye out for brake fluid weeping out of the inspection hole.

Great minds think alike! I have an idea for a drip pan that I may have fabricated to put under the ActiBrake unit.

Lucius