Operation & SafetyQuestion 50 of 60
What is the proper braking technique (snub braking) on a long downgrade?
a.Hold steady light pressure the entire way down
b.Coast in neutral and brake only at the bottom
c.Never touch the brakes at all
d.Apply the brakes firmly to slow about 5 mph below your safe speed, then release, and repeat
Explanation
With the vehicle in a low gear, apply the brakes firmly enough to feel a definite slowdown, then release when your speed has dropped about 5 mph below your safe speed. Once speed climbs back to the safe speed, repeat the process. This snub-braking method keeps the brakes from overheating compared with light, constant pressure.
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Related questions on this topic
- What is brake lag in an air brake system?
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- On a vehicle with air brakes, when is the proper time to release the brakes during snub braking on a downgrade?
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- If your air brakes fail and pressure drops, what safety feature will eventually stop the vehicle?
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