How To Tractor Trailer Air Brakes Work?

How do you use air brakes on a truck?

To apply the air brakes during normal stops, push the brake pedal down. Control the pressure so the vehicle comes to a smooth, safe stop. If you have a manual transmission, do not push the clutch in until the engine RPM is down close to idle. When stopped, select a starting gear.

Why do 18 wheelers use air brakes?

Air brakes are used in heavy commercial vehicles due to their reliability. They have several advantages for large multi-trailer vehicles: The supply of air is unlimited, so the brake system can never run out of its operating fluid, as hydraulic brakes can.

How does an air brake chamber work?

Air brake chambers. Air brake chambers are round metal containers, located at each wheel, where compressed air is converted into mechanical force to apply the brakes and stop the vehicle. When you press the brake pedal, the pushrod extends farther from the brake chamber, moving the slack adjuster forward.

What is the blue air line on a tractor trailer?

Air and Electrical Lines The red line is the air line for the trailer’s emergency brake. The green line is the electrical line. The blue line is the air line for the trailer’s service brake. Connect these lines to the corresponding couplers and socket on the trailer before moving the trailer.

At what PSI is the safety valve set to open?

A safety relief valve is installed in the first tank the air compressor pumps air to. The safety valve protects the tank and the rest of the system from too much pressure. The valve is usually set to open at 150 psi. If the safety valve releases air, something is wrong.

Why must air tanks be drained?

Why must air tanks be drained? Water and compressor oil can get inside of the tank and can freeze in cold weather and cause brake failure. When the air pressure is removed the springs put on the brakes. A parking brake control in the cab allows the driver to let the air out of the brakes.

Why are air brakes better than hydraulic?

Applications for Air Brakes A significant reason why air brakes are preferred in heavier trucks (above 26,000-pounds GVWR), compared to hydraulic systems, is their robust stopping power when they work – and when they fail.

How long should it take for a truck to build air?

Air compressors typically have a “cut-out” pressure between 110 psi and 130 psi and a “cut-in” pressure about 20 psi lower. Air pressure build-up from 85 psi to 100 psi should take 45 seconds or less. While driving, observe the air pressure gauge during build-up to ensure proper air system operation.

Why do air brakes lock up?

The most common causes are incorrect or malfunctioning relay valves. Other causes include air leaks, air system contamination, a front-axle-limiting valve and excessive use of the trolley valve. Timing imbalance occurs when some brakes receive air faster than others.

What are the six brake system categories?

Term: What are the six brake subsystemcategories? Definition: Apply system, boost system, hydraulicsystem, wheel brakes, brake balancecontrol system, and brake panelwarning lights.

How do I know what size air brake chamber I need?

Brake chamber size can be determined by measuring the diameter of the clamp used to hold it together or by locating the size markings on the brake chamber. The most common brake chamber size is 30. However, there are vehicles using both smaller and larger sizes.

How do I adjust my air brake chamber?

Pull the pushrod out from the brake chamber, using a tool for leverage. Measure the distance between the chalk mark and the face of the brake chamber ½ to ¾ of an inch of free stroke is a good range for a type 30 standard stroke brake chamber. If this distance is more than ¾ of an inch, the brakes need adjustment.

What color is the supply line on a tractor trailer?

Generally these lines are color coded where the service line is blue and the supply line is red. If the trailer connectors are not color coded, then both are usually black or silver and the emergency line will connect to the receptacle closest to the driver’s side on the front of the trailer.

What Colour is the service on a tractor unit?

Apply the tractor unit parking brake, stop the engine and remove the keys. Connect the service airline (yellow) and electrical connections. Connect the emergency airline (red) and watch for any unexpected movement.

What happens if Blue Air Line breaks?

If broken or disconnected, loss of pressure automatically allows the spring-loaded parking brakes to apply. Pressure would be released either by the driver operating the parking brakes or— if the trailer somehow becomes disconnected—the line will break and the parking brakes fail safe; they apply.