I have been reading some on servicing the parking brake on our '99 Fleetwood Bounder Motorhome located on the drive shaft just behind the transmission. Keep in mind that we are on the road traveling right now, heading west. I have no idea when or if the parking brake has EVER been serviced or checked. I have no idea of any problems or abuse by previous owners so I want to do preventative maintenance. The coach has 56,000 miles on it. For over a week now, I have made many attempts to remove the overflow bolt to check the fluid level, condition or even if there is fluid in the housing. I am having no luck in removing the bolt. I have tried everything except a torch to break the bolt loose and it just ain't happening.

If this were you, what would be your next step?

How much trouble could I have if the fluid is low, burn't or even gone?

Is there any symptoms that might show ahead of a failure?

Using penetrating oil and most other things are not helping. I would like some suggestions from anyone FAMILIAR with this parking brake. Chuck

 

Is this the bolt you are referring to?

 

Yes it is. It's the filler plug. Very hard to get to, it takes a swivel to get a socket on it and then it will not budge. I have been trying penetrating lube for about a week. Chuck

 

If it's not leaking, I wouldn't worry about it right now, just enjoy the trip

It a pipe-thread type plug ?

 

That option will allow me to enjoy the trip until the bearings in the housing fail due to neglected maintenance. I'm just not willing to flip that coin. I much prefer to do preventative and regular maintenance. That's why I need some help to remove the plug and replace the fluids. For all I know, it has never been done since 1999. Chuck