Helping Your Drivers Understand Their Brakes
Your commercial drivers must know the mechanics of their brakes to ensure their safety and address necessary repairs. It’s also essential they understand how their brakes should feel to diagnose any issues before they become a major problem.
More Than Basic Brake Maintenance
Not all commercial drivers have the same expertise as service technicians or mechanics. However, your operators must troubleshoot brake issues so they can give techs as much insight as possible.
A driver is a key part of the maintenance chain because they’re the ones who see, hear and feel their truck’s operation daily. That’s why your drivers need to understand what their brakes feel like when they’re not operating correctly.
While basic training provides your drivers with technical insight, it’s necessary to contextualize that knowledge, so your commercial operators know what to watch out for while they’re driving.
G-Force and Braking
Understanding their role in the condition of their brakes encourages drivers to utilize proper braking techniques. All commercial vehicles are subject to G-force, or the force felt when you accelerate or slow down. Braking causes drivers to feel like they’re being pulled forward while accelerating pushes them back into their seat. The perception of G-force causes some drivers to brake too harshly, which leads to overheated brakes and accelerated wear and tear.
Diagnosing Common Brake Problems
Whether you hear it or feel it, you should never ignore the warning signs of brake trouble. Report problems to your mechanic so they can assess the issue effectively.
Squealing while in motion: That indicates your brake pads are wearing because they’re coming in contact with the rotors.
Grinding while braking: You’ll feel that sensation in your brake pedal. It could mean you have something caught in the caliper, your brake pads are worn out or the drums need more lubrication.
Pulling to one side while braking: One of your brake calipers may be bad, so the other is overcompensating and pulling your truck unevenly.
Spongy brake pedal: You’ll notice the brakes feel “softer,” or you have to push the pedal to the floor to slow your vehicle. That means there’s air or moisture in your brake lines.
Steering wheel wobbling or vibrations while braking: Your rotors may be wearing unevenly, or a brake caliper is not releasing properly. Your brake components could also be damaged.
Request commercial service online or find a location near you if you experience braking issues with your commercial vehicles. Our expert technicians will diagnose and address your issue so you can get back on the road.
Categories: Bauer Built Blog
