Truck idle and using the air brakes

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by paccarmike, Jun 4, 2021.

  1. paccarmike

    paccarmike Bobtail Member

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    Washington
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    My company doesn't allow me to idle the truck. I have a 2021 frieghtliner cascadia. They set the idle limit to 3 minutes. Opti idle is pos and does not keep the truck cool. I can idle the old school way of popping the trailer brakes and releasing the tractor brakes. If I do that when loaded (gross 93k) would the trailer brakes hold me if on a slight decline? Wheels are not chocked.
     
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  3. buddyd157

    buddyd157 Road Train Member

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    i would not trust the brakes at any time, to be in perfect adjustment.

    and your idea of a "slight incline" will most certainly NOT be the same as mine or anyone elses.

    you have choices

    1) seek another employer that has APU's on thier equipment

    2) buy a device to keep the throttle pedal slightly depressed.

    check auto parts stores ( or online) for something like this

    Thexton Universal Throttle Pedal Depressor - THE393
     
  4. lovesthedrive

    lovesthedrive R.I.P.

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    Yard stick.
    Or turn on cruise, touch resume so your above idle
     
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  5. roundhouse

    roundhouse Road Train Member

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    Next time you’re ate the terminal and dispatch office. Walk around back and shut off the power to the AIr conditioning units.
    See how they like it.

    I would at least get some good wheel
    Chocks
     
  6. lovesthedrive

    lovesthedrive R.I.P.

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    :biggrin_25514::biggrin_25523::biggrin_25514:
     
  7. buddyd157

    buddyd157 Road Train Member

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    that's IF the power panel is not padlocked.


    either that, or put a tarp over the condenser.....that'll sweat'em out as well.
     
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  8. Arctic_fox

    Arctic_fox Experienced mx13 execrator

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    Find the thermometer probe the truck uses and put an 8 hour hand warmer on it. Works like a charm. Better idea, find a company thats not stupid and has either old iron, APUs or no anti-idle.
     
  9. Dave1837

    Dave1837 Road Train Member

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    Yes they'll hold. Chances are your tractor only has 2 parking brakes anyway. You could get a wheel chock just to be on the safe side
     
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  10. Dockbumper

    Dockbumper Road Train Member

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    Make sure you are using the opti idle properly. I was issued a 19 Cascadia a couple of years ago. Worked just fine. I think I needed to leave the ignition in the on position and use the bunk controls. Google it. The engine is running the same Air Conditioning compressor whether you are idling or using opti idle. Better yet, call the company shop and ask them how to use it.
     
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  11. Dockbumper

    Dockbumper Road Train Member

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    That ain't gonna work on a 2021 Freightliner. That trick has been gone for a long time.
     
    bzinger, tscottme, 25(2)+2 and 4 others Thank this.
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