Fareed's Auto Service Blog: Tips, Advice and More

Hello and welcome! My name is Fareed, and this blog is about car repair. I plan to write about smash repair, body work, painting and other aspects of the industry. I also hope to include a few posts that will help you assess whether or not something is wrong with your car. I have worked on my own car for years, and recently, I've been embraced as the neighbourhood mechanic -- all my friends come to me for help. I'm not a professional mechanic, but I feel confident sharing this info with you as I've been working on cars for years. I am happy you found my blog and hope that you enjoy reading!

What Causes Brake Failure in Commercial Trucks?

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When it comes to utility, commercial trucks are the leading brand on the road. This is because of a comfortable driver's cabin, an unmatched carrying capacity and the ability to travel long distances with tonnes of luggage. Many other vehicles would break down when subjected to such a workload. Unfortunately, commercial trucks have their downsides, too. Their braking system is complex and comprises many parts, especially for large trucks with as many as eighteen wheels. The complexity means that braking problems can result from any component, leading to devastating accidents. The following are some of the common causes of brake failure in commercial trucks:

Poor Air Pressure

Braking systems in commercial trucks rely on air pressure to work when the driver presses the brake pedal. Poor pressure means that the brake pedal cannot generate enough force to circulate brake fluid in the systems. In this way, the braking force cannot be generated and the vehicle cannot come to a halt. Drivers must monitor the braking pressure and use the required controls to keep it at the right level all the time. Moreover, they must ensure that the pressure tank is properly sealed before embarking on a journey. Cracked and worn tanks should be replaced immediately.

Condensation

A commercial truck's brakes don't respond well to extreme heat and cold. When the vehicle is full, the weight of the luggage is transferred to the wheels and the truck's frame. The wheels need lots of force to stop whenever you brake, causing the braking system to heat up. In severe cases, the brake fluid produces steam due to the heat. When the temperatures fall, the steam condenses to water (especially during winter) and mixes with brake fluid. The brake fluid then loses its integrity. It cannot transfer braking pressure appropriately when it mixes with water, causing brake failure.

Worn Tyres

Even though your braking system may be in good condition, you need good tyres to help stop these huge machines. Tyres maintain contact between the road and the vehicle. Worn tyres will make you lose traction and when you brake, the vehicle will continue to skid in the direction it was moving. Always check your tyres for balding and replace any worn ones before embarking on a journey.

Brake failure is a common problem in many trucks. Due to their complexity, it is best to inspect and service them regularly, besides replacing the worn-out components of the system with quality truck parts.

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23 February 2018