Brake Repair and Hauling Heavy Loads

Nov 13
16:58

2010

Anna Woodward

Anna Woodward

  • Share this article on Facebook
  • Share this article on Twitter
  • Share this article on Linkedin

Brake repair may be needed more often by truck drivers and others who carry heavy loads. Here are some things to think about.

mediaimage
Brake repair may be necessitated far more often by motorists who tote hefty loads. Truck owners and others often want to use their vehicles to haul large and heavy loads of cargo. Home Depot purchases,Brake Repair and Hauling Heavy Loads Articles landscaping rock and more—why not pile it as high as the truck bed or SUV will allow. Right? Wrong. There is more to hauling a load of weight than just visibility. Here are some things to think about:

Trucks and other vehicles have a mandated amount of weight that can be safely carried in the vehicle. Note the name “half ton pick-up.” This isn’t just an awesome name, it is the payload. A payload is the regulated weight which can be toted. Not only are brakes affected but steering, transmission and more. The heavier the load, the higher the braking temperature which causes more wear and tear.

Truck brakes are different: These large vehicles that are meant to do heavy work have compression halting systems which are different then traditional automobiles’.

Engine retarding systems: This is another name for the compression system. This method closes intake and exhaust valves, moves the piston upward forcing air into the cylinder. The valve then releases the gas stemming from this movement. These retarders are sometimes noisy and not allowed in residential areas.

Another difference between car brakes and truck’s: Another difference is that auto’s systems rely on fluids to halt the mechanisms while the trucking variety relies on air. The pro of air vs. fluid is that it doesn’t run out. The con is that it takes a bit longer to stop the machine.

Towing considerations: If an SUV or auto is towing a trailer or boat, there are braking considerations they must ponder. One safety tip is to slow down. It takes a lot longer and more distance to stop a vehicle towing a boat or trailer.

A trailer’s weight will figure into the equation: The heavier the item in tow, the more stopping distance that will be needed.

Extra alertness required: While towing an item, a motorist must be extra alert regarding themselves and others on the road. Being hyper vigilant and focused is mandatory.

Leave extra room: It’s important to make certain there’s extra room on all sides of your auto, boat or trailer. Don’t follow too closely and encourage other cars to pass you rather than tail gate. Don’t take this personally as safety is the most important issue at hand.

Downshift: Down-shifting can add another element of slowing down before actually pushing the brake pedal. This will save the brakes from wearing out and increase the efficiency of the halting maneuver and pricey brake repairs.

Brake inspection: Before hauling weighty loads anywhere, whether it be a trailer-in-tow or just a load of rocks in the pick-up, it’s wise to have the pads, fluids, rotary, and pistons inspected to make certain all are working well.

Brake repair and proper maintenance of a vehicle is extremely important. It can save your truck, car and your life.

Article "tagged" as:

Categories: