How to Improve Brake Performance

Poorly performing brakes present a safety hazard. This is especially true for large trucks that must stop a lot of weight. It is not always easy to tell beforehand when brakes might fail or fail to operate at peak performance. Drivers can be prepared, however. There are ways of checking brakes and improving brake performance.

Instructions

1

Check the air chamber stroke to determine whether it is exceeding the established limits. If one automatic slack adjuster needs to be replaced, replace them all. When one goes bad, the others will go bad shortly.

2

Replace all of the rollers, bushings, anchor pins and springs whenever servicing cam brakes. Replace the return springs whenever the brakes are realigned.

3

Make sure all new valves for the air brake system have exactly the same crack pressure as the valves being replaced. Having one valve with a different crack pressure can cause the brake system to become unbalanced.

4

Replace all brake linings at the same time. Failing to do so could result in unbalanced brakes. Also, replacing them at the same time will lead to more even wear and a longer life for the brakes.

5

Use the same type of cam as that being replaced. Installing a different type could shorten the lifetime of the linings and drums.

6

Check the cam rollers to make sure they are properly lubricated. Lubrication should be applied directly to the pocket of the web roller. Improper lubrication can cause increased wear and decrease brake performance.

7

Use only original equipment manufacturer shoe return springs, camshafts, rollers and brake shoes. Failure to do so could result in shorter lifetime of linings, reduced brake performance and can cause braking to become unbalanced.

8

Inspect the air management system to make sure the air supply is clean and dry. Look for water and any other contaminants that might have gotten into the system.