Maintenance 115 Air Tanks WARNING When draining the air tanks, DO NOT look into the area of the draining air. Dirt or sludge particles may be in the air stream that could cause eye injury. Air tanks should be drained daily. Make sure the drain cocks close properly after draining. Empty moisture from air tanks by pulling the drain valve lanyard or pull cord. The tanks should be checked for condensation fluid, even if an automatic drain valve is installed. W8003393 It is very important that the air system is kept clean. Air reservoirs should be drained daily or even twice a day on very hot days. Daily drainage expels any condensation in the air reservoirs.
If sludge or oil is found in the drainage, the air compressor should be checked for proper operation. If an excessive amount of fluid is drained out of the tanks (even when drained daily) have the system checked for possible problems with the air dryer. Air Dryers Air dryers have a regeneration system that cleans out the accumulated moisture but eventually the drying medium will be filled up. Change the dryer cartridge when more water than usual is noticed at the daily tank drainings. The volume of daily drain water will change depending on temperature, geographical location and how much the brakes are used.
Dryer manufacturers recommends changing the cartridge every 2 to 3 years but the intervals need to be adjusted for vehicle application. In hot, coastal climates, the cartridge may have to be changed every year.