is clutch braking real or a myth?

especially when you find the turn signal fluid low as well!

 

The way it works is the clutch brake has two tabs that fit into a groove on the input shaft. The last 5% of pedal effort to the floor is called "the crush" as this is when you're engaging the clutch brake. It should only be used at a complete stop and at idle. When the tabs are broken off from abuse, they make a two piece brake that is installed and one angry mechanic who has the task of installing it.

 

Interesting, I've been wondering what might be going on with the truck I was (recently) assigned. I'm a new driver but the one place I've thought I would have no trouble getting into gear is from neutral/a stop... Needless to say, the clutch brake is non existent on my truck. With the clutch is all the way in I still basically have to force it in gear, it just grinds if try and put light pressure on it, so put a little more pressure on the shifter and eventually it goes in. Makes stoplights and stop-n-go traffic a real #######.

 

how long does it take to fix if the tabs are broken? I think i broke my tabs due to abuse. How expensive are the parts to fix this? I am at a freightliner waiting for them to look at it.

 

I remember before there was a 2 piece. It was just one solid ring. Lots of drivers would roll forward on a dump ramp/chips and then disengage the clutch in Reverse. Because they couldn't back up without stopping. Wipeout! Why would you slip the clutch sitting on the hill instead of using your brakes. Stupid. Just like pre-selecting.

 

Is this what's known as gear recovery, where you set your parking brake, walk back, and pick it up?

 

The quickest way is to torch it out or break it apart with an air chisel. Hour repair maybe, give or take and replace it with a 2" two piece clutch brake. I don't know how much for the cost, maybe 50.00 plus labor.

 

Almost all of our trucks have worn out clutch brakes in them. I've found that if you take your time and feather the clutch a bit while putting it into gear you can get it in gear without grinding, I do it many times all day long. The key is patience. As others have said, when you're coming to a stop, ease it into gear while still barely rolling and it won't grind either. Of course that does mean that you'll have to hold your foot on the clutch while waiting at the light.

 

First I have heard of this was a few weeks ago in school and also thought it was a joke. Then when going thru the school book it shows & explains it. Teacher explained it the same way as the book.

I am going to guess all the school trucks have broken clutch brakes?

Man I am going to have to re-learn how to use a clutch in a truck after 30+ years of driving LT trucks & cars!
Dave ----