Replacing Common Car Parts Yourself

How to Troubleshoot Air Brake Problems

by Roy Bradley

Any large vehicle designed to drive over long distances has to be maintained according to a rigorous schedule. This is particularly important when it comes to the brakes fitted to such a large rig, especially when it is heavily laden at the start of a trip. If you're not perfectly happy with the operation of the braking system on your truck, you need to get to the bottom of this before you take to the road and this may involve some rigorous checks or component replacement using something like Isuzu truck parts. What areas should you look at in particular?

Advance Checks

As you know, you need to conduct several checks on the braking system before you operate this type of vehicle. You need to ensure that the operating pressure is at the minimum level recommended for the vehicle and that it doesn't take too long to arrive at those pressures when you conduct the build-up precheck. You'll also need to confirm the cut-in and cut-out pressures on the air compressor governor.

Coupler

When you're looking for specific problems, begin with the air coupler. Think about the last time that you replaced the rubber seals here as if they are compromised, then a leak can develop and as it builds up, it can cause compressor failure.

Sensitivity

You'll also need to check on your brake sensitivity and this will be especially important when you are returning from a trip with a lightweight or empty trailer. Your air brake system should be configured so that it works equally as effectively in this scenario as it does when you're heading to your initial destination.

Valve Issues

The brake system relies on several different valves that are located strategically throughout the vehicle. There is a safety valve and a check valve between the air reservoir tank and reserve tank and a foot valve beneath the pedal in the cab. Any one of these could be faulty and may need to be replaced.

By the Numbers

It pays to know your numbers for the vehicle in question. You should check to make sure that the pressure levels are within those parameters, both when you conduct your pre-start checks and during operation. When you keep a close eye on the gauges you will get advance warning of any problems and can take action in order to fix.

Buying Carefully

It's crucial to get the highest quality replacement parts for any component within your braking system, for obvious reasons. If you're not 100% sure of the source of the issue, bring in a brake system expert for peace of mind.

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