Rubber boot on DD3 missing

[Fredward]

The rubber boot that is supposed to cover the piston as it comes out of the canister and connects to the slack adjuster is missing on one DD3. I sort of understand how the DD3 works. How important is that boot to the continued operation of that brake canister? The park brake seems slower to release on that canister than on the one with the boot.
Fred

[Lin]

I had thought it was pretty much a dust boot.  It should be replaceable.  Maybe even a split boot would work if necessary.

[JackConrad]

That boot is to help keep dust, water and debris out of the DD3. A build-up of any of these can affect the movement of very important parts inside the DD3. It may prevent the rollers from engaging the shaft or prevent the collar from releasing the parking brake. I would replace the boot ASAP. When replacing the boot, you might want to locate the grease zerk and give it a shot of grease also.  Jack

[buswarrior]

Yes, replace the boot.

happy coaching!
buswarrior