Every modern truck has three different braking systems that all work together, yet separately, to create a safe and manageable environment for the driver. All three are imperative for a truck on the road, and they must be constantly monitored and maintained to ensure they are working properly. J&M Truck & Trailer Repair is a one-stop-shop for all your tire, brake, and suspension needs for both your truck and trailer.
Emergency Brake
Unlike automobiles, heavy duty trucks have an emergency brake system that is activated automatically when it senses an upcoming problem. These automatic systems are tested at the factory over and over to verify their functions. Some trucks also have a manual lever that allows you to control the emergency brake in order to have more physical control of the truck.
Parking Brake (also called the Spring Brake)
This is your typical push and pull brake that you see in the cab of every truck. When applied, the truck loses enormous amounts of air pressure, keeping the truck in place until the brake is let go. While the emergency brake system works by using the parking brake, there is generally no use of it outside of parking your truck (hence the name).
Air Brake
These are the brakes that are controlled by your brake pedal used on every drive. Like other brake systems, they reduce air pressure at the control of the driver’s foot in order to slow down the truck to a desired speed – or completely stop it. Newer trucks also come with what is called an anti-lock braking system, or ABS. The ABS allows your truck to keep traction when the brakes are hit hard, which allows the truck to stay on the road instead of veering off, or even worse, going airborne.