Is there any problem for using engine brakes in winter

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by alex35, Feb 23, 2012.

  1. 98989

    98989 Road Train Member

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    also make sure that engine temp is working

    in case if engine brake work below standard temp

    engine brake on cold engine is not good
     
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  2. Emulsified

    Emulsified Road Train Member

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    Simply put: NO
    your engine brake works off your engine. thus it brakes your drive wheels only. That's just one axle, one side. all other 16 wheels are able to move freely, creating a lop sided braking effect.
    It would be the same if only the service brakes worked on one set of duals on one side of your tractor.
    This allows the trailer to use it's weight and momentum to push the tractor forward and since you're retarding acceleration on only one side, it causes a jackknife.
    Use your service brakes carefully and skillfully, applying even pressure.
    In extreme braking situations, push in the clutch at the same time, relieving engine drive pressure to the one set of drive wheels.
    Small moves with the steering wheel.
    Gently guide your rig. No sudden moves or pressures.
     
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  3. vangtransport

    vangtransport Heavy Load Member

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    There isn't a yes or no answer IMO!! It depends on how much weight you have on your drives, how many stages your brake is, whether it's snow or ice, what type and how much grip of your drives. If you have a multiple step brake start in the 1st stage and gradually go up until it stops gripping. You will feel it in the drive line when you stop gripping. If your only option is to drive then go steady and slow and keep plenty of distance in front of you. I always watch the four wheelers, a general rule is if they can't stick to the road, neither can you. :biggrin_255:
     
  4. Icee

    Icee Light Load Member

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    Best answer I have seen in this tread. As with everything in the winter, use your head! I use engine brake/retarder every day all the time except when there is just wet ice.
     
    otherhalftw Thanks this.
  5. otherhalftw

    otherhalftw R.I.P.

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    The newer trucks aren't set up the same as the old ones as far as the drive/traction is concerned. New (two axle drives) trucks have traction/drive to both axles constant...power divider reduces the spider gear torque to the "free floating" wheels.

    So I have been informed by our shop and confirmed with dealer.
     
  6. Caterpillar Cowboy

    Caterpillar Cowboy Heavy Load Member

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    A flatlander jackknifed on I80 or I25 in Wyo? I can't belive that!

     
  7. Emulsified

    Emulsified Road Train Member

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    It depends on how you speced the truck when it was purchased.
    I have a 2010 T2000. There is drive to the #2 axle, driver side only unless I push the button on the dash, adding drive to the #3 axle.
    I know for sure. Still have the tow bill from the mud hole I got stuck in!
     
    otherhalftw Thanks this.
  8. ProduceHauler

    ProduceHauler Light Load Member

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    That is mostly incorrect. It is right only when one of the drives ends will start loosing the grip but as long as all of them are intact with the surface - they are all transmitting very close amount of torque to the ground (or to the engine - when jake-braking). The button on the dashboard is only needed when ANY wheel-end will spin so you can "force" half the torque to the other axle. In other words you are right only when you are stuck or starting to be. Otherwise both your drive axles and both sides are working almost evenly
     
    123456 and otherhalftw Thank this.
  9. ProduceHauler

    ProduceHauler Light Load Member

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    he made wrong turn lol
     
  10. otherhalftw

    otherhalftw R.I.P.

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    Better explanation than I got from our shop or the dealer!!!!!:biggrin_25514: