Jake-Brake

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Miles_Of_Truckin, Dec 15, 2008.

  1. Miles_Of_Truckin

    Miles_Of_Truckin Light Load Member

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    Sep 25, 2008
    MD
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    Hello i just had some ?'s about the jake brake. Is it true to turn it off going down on down grades in the rain? I know if your empty yes but what about with good weight on? Plus what about going down a down grade in snow? I know without it something is going to happen. I really have no idea when to use an not to use. Can somebody give me there advice please.
     
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  3. Chain Drive

    Chain Drive Medium Load Member

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    Nov 28, 2008
    Nova Scotia,Canada
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    I run it all the time the locals love it!!! anywho the rain isn't too big of a problem but if it's on suddenly shuts off it means the drives have locked up better shut it off some people just don't like the noise but it does save brakes
     
  4. Working Class Patriot

    Working Class Patriot Road Train Member

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    Jan 17, 2008
    Wherever and Whenever...
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    Never use them in rainy, snowy or icy conditions unless you like to look like Speed Racer spinning out into the wall or the ditch....
     
  5. Big "A"

    Big "A" Light Load Member

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    Nov 29, 2007
    White Bluff,Tn
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    I use mine in the rain loaded or empty, i use it on low when i'm empty. I never use it in snow or ice. I did that once did't turn out to good. But most of the time it's all up to u, you know your on truck.
     
  6. panhandlepat

    panhandlepat Road Train Member

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    Jan 12, 2007
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    in my 2 yrs of limited exp. i havent had a problem in rain.
    BUT i have ALWAYS shut it off in snow ETC.
     
  7. Wiseguywireless

    Wiseguywireless Road Train Member

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    Dec 21, 2007
    Petoskey, MI
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    This winter I forgot that mine were on and while going down a hill on black ice near Gaylord MI, I suddenly couldn't hear them anymore and noticed that my drive tires were sliding to the right, and my Trailer tail was on its way to passing me on the left! I had to give it some fuel very fast and prayed..... almost needed to clean my drawers also...... No some conditions are not safe for Jakes. Ice and wet snow for 2
     
  8. Capebretoncowboy

    Capebretoncowboy Bobtail Member

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    Dec 15, 2008
    Antigonish, Nova Scotia
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    I don't see why if you're taking your time how it wouldnt be safe to use the jake. If you're not using the jake, you're applying your brakes harder, correct? i've had a few little dipsy doodles using it in snow and ice, but if you're driving according to conditions there shouldn't be too many problems IMO
     
  9. Lilbit

    Lilbit Road Train Member

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    Aug 4, 2008
    Let me check my logbook
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    The jakes only slow the tractor down, not the trailer whereas when you are using the actual brakes, you are applying to the whole vehicle, not just the tractor.
     
    heyns57 and panhandlepat Thank this.
  10. Wiseguywireless

    Wiseguywireless Road Train Member

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    Dec 21, 2007
    Petoskey, MI
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    The problem they have on ice is just like if you hit your emergency brakes in a car while on ice. Only the back tires brake, thus, you spin out.
    Same with the big truck, your Jakes only brake the drive tires, so now you have a trailer that is NOT being braked and no braking on the front tires. so what happens is your drive quit driving and you are now skidding.
     
  11. Wiseguywireless

    Wiseguywireless Road Train Member

    1,693
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    Dec 21, 2007
    Petoskey, MI
    0
    YEA, what I am saying also.. LOL
     
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