Can one hard brake create damage to a truck?

Front brakes did not adjust equally, check the adjustment. A hard application of the brakes will cause the automatic slack adjuster to adjust, and if both didn't move the same distance it can cause an imbalance. Also check the spring centering pin on the steer axle, look for signs of the spring or axle shifting. Likely it is just your brakes out of balance and a good adjustment will correct the issue.

 

What @brian991219 advised. Most likely slack adjuster needs adjusting. Do check break linings for damage and follow up with breakfast at waffle house.

 

If after hard breaking and you have released the brakes, then with no brakes applied it’s pulling then that indicates the brake on the side it’s pulling toward is not releasing. Several things can cause this. Since you stated the problem went away after applying the brakes both light and hard I would lean toward a bad release valve but don’t rule out a mechanical problem.

 

I'd be more concerned about the hard braking,,

 

None of y’all every had to
Stab the brakes to
Avoid some moron on the highway?

 

Do you have an adequate amount of grease on fifth wheel?

 

I'd be more concerned about being in a Volvo

 

When I had my union job, the OBR would record a "hard braking" and you had to explain what happened. Like 3 "hard brakings" indicated trouble and you lost your bonus. They took it very seriously. Of course I've had my share of close calls, I figured it was part of the job. The safety schmucks behind the desk didn't see it that way.

 

It depends on where you drive. Sometimes you don't have the luxury of choice. Make a good space cushion? Somebody decides to use that to cut over brake, and take the next exit right in front of you.