Posted: 10/14/2022
As anyone who's ever driven a heavy duty truck can tell you, the brakes are one of the most important parts. Not only does the correct operation of a truck rely on the brakes working, too, there's no bigger element to the safety of the road than a truck's brakes. That's why it's important to keep them well-maintained. Here are some tips for heavy duty truck brake maintenance.
There are two main types of brakes used on heavy duty trucks: air brakes and hydraulic brakes. Air brakes are the most common, and they use compressed air to stop the truck. Hydraulic brakes use fluid pressure to stop the truck.
1. Keep your heavy duty truck brakes in good condition by regularly inspecting them and performing maintenance as needed. This includes checking the brake pads, shoes, and other components for wear, as well as making sure the brakes are properly adjusted.
2. If you notice any problems with your heavy duty truck brakes, have them repaired as soon as possible by a qualified technician. You might think you know a lot about your truck, but don't go with your gut--get a mechanic to help you out.
3. Always use the correct type of brake fluid for your heavy duty truck, and make sure the brake fluid level is maintained at the proper level. Again, a qualified technician can help you with this.
4. When heavy duty truck brakes are applied, do so smoothly and evenly to avoid premature wear or damage to the brakes. An often-overlooked aspect of brake maintenance is in how the brakes are used.
5. If you must use your heavy duty truck brakes frequently, such as when driving in stop-and-go traffic, make sure to give them a chance to cool down periodically. Heavy duty truck brakes are subject to enormous strain and extreme heat on a constant basis.
6. Follow the heavy duty truck brake maintenance schedule recommended by the manufacturer to ensure your brakes are in good working order.
The main parts of a heavy duty truck brake are the brake pads, shoes, rotors, and drums. The brake pads and shoes press against the rotors and drums to create friction, which stops the truck.
1. Brake Pads: The brake pads are the part of the heavy duty truck brake that actually presses against the rotor to create friction. Brake pads are made of a variety of materials, including ceramic, semi-metallic, and organic.
2. Brake Shoes: The brake shoes are the part of the heavy duty truck brake that presses against the drum to create friction. Like brake pads, they are also made of a variety of materials, including ceramic, semi-metallic, and organic.
3. Rotors: The rotors are the large metal discs that the brake pads press against to stop the heavy duty truck.
4. Drums: The drums are the metal cylinders that the brake shoes press against to stop the heavy duty truck.
Heavy duty truck brakes are an essential part of the truck and keeping them well-maintained is crucial to the safety of both the truck and its driver. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your heavy duty truck brakes will always be in good working order.
Arnold Motor Supply has been a leading supplier of auto parts since 1927. Founded and based in Iowa, we have auto parts stores all over the midwest. Order auto parts online and you'll be notified via email once your purchase is ready for pickup at your local Arnold Motor Supply parts store.
