checking and adjusting trailer brakes

Every time you get under a new trailer (or once a week), make a habit of applying at least 80 lbs of air pressure to the trailer (use foot break or trailer brake) at least 3 times. This will keep auto adjusters working optimally. Too little pressure over continued operation (as in drivers like me who rarely hard brake) will not sufficiently articulate the adjuster mechanism to cause it to "cinch up automatically", then eventually will this will lead to a sticking mechanism that will require overhaul or replacement.

If you ever get called around back for a possible inspection, first thing you do before you set your brakes is hit the foot brake hard 3 times, then set the brake and let the air build back before you turn it off, then go in and be pleasant, but not overly pleasant (they don't like "chatty Kathy's")

 

Incorrect.

CORRECT! THANK YOU.

Also correct. My first inspection, I remember I stepped on them so many times I drained the tanks. I told the guy I fanned the brakes down so he could see the low air light.

Also, when he is under there telling you to step on the brakes pedal, don't do a full application. The harder you press, the longer the stroke and the more likely you will be OOS.

 

Thankfully my license is from a jurisdiction (AB) that allows us to adjust our brakes after having taken the approved air brake course which is a required part of our Class 1 (or to add the air brake endorsement to any other license).

 

Also, just before he goes under there, hand him your grease gun and ask him to make himself useful.

 

That's a good one.

 

Good video mark, watched it all

 

Heck, I'm the one who installed the shoes & drums. I'm also the one who replaced the slacks if/when they needed replacing. I'm not going to lose any sleep over somebody finding out I *gasp* ADJUSTED THE BRAKES MYSELF!!!

Seriously, though, it USED to be the driver's responsibility to keep the brakes adjusted...MADE them get under the truck to look at things like u-bolts that might be loose, brake linings that are getting thin, etc...things you won't notice unless you are actually under the truck and looking at things. These days with auto slacks, though, if you don't know what you are doing you could get in trouble. There are a few different styles, and each style has it's own peculiarities. If you aren't familiar with them, you might just snug 'em up and be unable to back them off the required distance. Other types wear out quicker the more you manually adjust them, so you should avoid unnecessary manual adjustments. If an automatic slack needs manual adjustment, it was either installed incorrectly or it is bad and needs to be replaced.

 

..... because they make more money installing 4 new auto slacks.