Air Dryer Maintenance

By: Parts for Trucks 

Most systems do not have external indicators that tell you when service or maintenance is required. This means that for most air dryer systems regular checks for moisture in air tanks are required. This is done by manually operating the purge valves.

Constant presence of moisture in the air tanks indicates a need to service the unit. In air dryers using desiccant, that situation will most likely require replacement of the desiccant cartridge.

To check for proper operation of purge valves on the air dryer, a driver can “manually” operate the valve by using air and listening for the blast of air after the compressor unloads. This should be done regularly, along with walkaround checks listening for leaks in air lines and components. If leaks are heard or no purge cycle can be heard, the air dryer needs to be repaired or replaced.