Replacing E-1 brake application valve with an E-3

[MC7S50]

I need to change the E-3 brake application valve on my MC-7 because it sometimes leaks quite a bit of air.  Has anyone done this job?  I am wondering how long it will take to do it. 

Thanks

John

[Brian Diehl]

I replaced the one on my 96A3.  Other than being hard working in the spare tire compartment it is not a bad job.  I would allocate about 2 hours to do the job.  It shouldn't take you much more than an hour is all fittings come apart easily.  Let us know how it goes.

[MC7S50]

Today I found out that my bus still has the original E-1 brake application valve on it.  This is apparently no longer available and must be upgraded to the E-3 valve. 

Has anyone done this conversion?

[JackConrad]

Before you change the valve, make sure it is the problem.  I had a bad parking brake valve that would cause air to leak out the bottom of the brake application valve (I think it leaked when the parking brake was applied). I found this AFTER I replaced the application valve. Also, I think you will find that the E3 is capable of applying more braking force. When I changed mine, a replacement E1 was available, but had to be ordered. Can't help with the conversion difficulty.  Jack

[MC7S50]

Thanks, Jack.  It may be the parking brake valve.  The air leaks out of the exhaust port on the back of the E-1, and it does seem to be while the parking brake is applied.  I will do some more testing.  I have heard that the E-3 does increase the air pressure available for brake application.  That might be a good thing.   It looks like the air lines would have to be modified and several ports on the E-3 would have to be plugged off.

[captain ron]

I replaced one of those valves on mine, MCI sent me the wrong valve and said they didn't have what I needed. I took the old one to NAPA and they had it and was very reasonable. It was a 15 minute job. Mine was right below the E. brake and only leaked when the brake was released if I remember correctly. It was a black plastic valve.

[LUKE at US COACH]

Hi John and Folks:


John, if you determine that in fact your E-1 valve is the problem, we do have them rebuilt in stock.  You can call us toll free at: 1-888-262-2434.

I Hope this HELPS!!!

Happy and SAFE!! Bussin' to ALl.
LUKE at US COACH