Posted: 03/06/2023

How to Maintain Your Truck’s Air Brakes

As a trucker, you know that maintaining your vehicle is essential to keeping it in good condition and preventing costly repairs. That's why it's important to regularly check and servicing your truck's air brakes. In this blog post, we'll explain how to properly maintain your air brakes so they continue to work effectively. Keep reading to learn more!

Check the air pressure in your truck's air brakes regularly.

Air brakes are a vital part of truck maintenance, and one of the key components is measuring the air pressure. It is essential to check the air pressure of your truck’s air brakes at least once a month - any longer could result in costly or hazardous issues further down the line. The optimal air pressure level should be 100-120 psi; any lower than this can affect the performance of your brakes and increase stoppage time significantly. Checking your brake’s air pressure regularly will help ensure that your vehicle runs safely, saving you time and money in the long run.

Inspect the air hoses for any cracks or leaks. If you find any, replace them immediately.

It is important to regularly inspect air hoses as they are vital components in many setups. Cracks and leaks in the hoses can lead to a considerable loss of pressure, which will have an impact on the performance of the machinery connected to it. Replacement should be conducted quickly if any issues are identified in order to avoid additional damage or problems caused by faulty equipment. It is essential to pay special attention when conducting such inspections so that the system remains operational at optimal parameters.

Make sure the brake chambers are free of rust and corrosion.

Before any repair or maintenance is done, it is important to ensure the brake chambers are free from rust and corrosion. Neglecting this step can lead to further damage and an inefficient braking system, which could negatively affect the lifespan and performance of your vehicle. Taking the time to thoroughly inspect the brake chamber for rust or corrosion will help ensure proper functioning as well as extend its life. Whenever possible use quality products to brush away rust and remove corrosive buildup and make sure all safety requirements are met to complete this task safely.

Check push rod actuation out of the brake chambers

Verifying the adjustment of the push rod actuation is a critical step in properly maintaining your truck’s air brakes. If the push rod is too loose, it can cause inadequate braking and poor performance. If it is too tight, this can lead to excessive wear on other components, or even total failure of the brake system. This should be carried out in a safe and careful manner, ensuring that all safety requirements are met, the right tools are used, and the proper adjustments are made. Regularly checking push rod actuation will help ensure your vehicle runs safely and efficiently with minimal disruptions caused by faulty equipment.

Check for valve failure in primary or secondary circuit.

Faulty valve failure in the primary or secondary circuit of your vehicle’s air brakes can cause major problems. This type of issue should be identified and rectified as soon as possible to avoid any additional damages or disruption to the system. In order to ensure that no valve failures are present, it is essential to regularly inspect all valves for any signs of malfunctioning or wear. A professional technician should be consulted for any necessary repairs, as special tools and knowledge may be required to properly detect and solve this issue.

Know When to Replace Bearings and Hoses

The bearings and hoses that make up your vehicle’s air brake system should be checked at regular intervals to assess their condition. Any signs of wear or damage should be addressed promptly, as these components are essential for safe operation of the brakes.

If they need replacing, it is important to only use quality parts that meet the specifications required by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Not doing so could cause major issues, such as brake failure or decreased performance. If you are unsure about the best course of action, consult a qualified automotive technician for advice before making any replacements.

Grease the slack adjusters every few months to keep them from sticking.

Grease should be applied to the slack adjusters on a regular basis to keep them from sticking. If too much time passes between lubrications, it can cause the slack adjusters to rust or seize up due to buildup of materials, making them difficult or even impossible to move without causing damage. To avoid any issues, grease should be reapplied every few months in light and even layers so friction is reduced and smooth operation is ensured. If performed at regular intervals and with the correct lubricant, using grease for slack adjuster maintenance will help guarantee optimal performance over the long term.

Have your truck's air brakes serviced by a professional at least once a year.

Maintaining the functioning of your truck's air brakes is an essential component of road safety. To ensure that you and your fellow drivers are safe on the road, it is important to have your air brakes serviced by a professional at least once a year. This service typically includes inspecting brake system components to make sure they are in proper condition, checking and adjusting brake pedal travel, examining friction material for dirt or wear and checking compressed air system performance. Air brakes are more powerful than other types of vehicle brakes and require specialized knowledge to properly service, so trust only a professional technician to keep yours functioning optimally.

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