How Air Brakes Work
Heavy-duty truck brakes have a seemingly impossible role: to bring a machine weighing thousands of pounds to a full stop. Thankfully, air brakes are here to help. Unlike hydraulic brakes that use fluid to apply pressure to the brake pads, air brakes use compressed air to activate the brake system, which is often more reliable in heavy-duty applications. The air brake system consists of several components, including air compressors, air reservoirs, brake chambers, and slack adjusters. When you apply the brake pedal, it releases compressed air, which activates the brake chamber and applies pressure to the brake pads, causing the truck to slow down or stop.
Signs of Worn or Damaged Air Brakes
Ensuring your air brake system works properly should be one of your top priorities as an owner-operator or fleet manager, as a failing air brake system can put the operator, other motorists, and pedestrians in danger. When looking for signs of a damaged air brake system, we suggest you pay attention to the stopping distance, the feel of the brake pedal, the noises your brakes make under pressure, and your warning lights. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, it's important to get your brakes inspected and repaired by a professional as soon as possible.
Air Brake Maintenance Tips
Regular air brake maintenance can help prevent costly brake repairs and keep your truck's air brake system functioning at its best. We recommend checking the air pressure daily, draining moisture from the air tanks regularly, inspecting brake components for wear and damage, and adjusting the brake slack adjusters. Although you could do this on your own, our experienced technicians use sophisticated and cutting-edge tools to get you in and out of the shop in no time.
Contact Us
At Bus & Truck of Chicago, we provide reliable truck brake repair services in Chicago, Illinois. Our team of experienced technicians can quickly diagnose and repair any brake issues to ensure your truck is operating safely and efficiently. Contact us today to schedule your brake repair appointment.
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"Wonderful company to deal with. Very professional and accommodating to our company’s needs. Service is fast and efficient. We have brought 5 trucks over for repairs in the last 3 months and have NOT had 1 issue with the service or the repairs. Cannot be happier with this company."