Braking Conundrum

Well, when I say I know nothing about them....I mean, I know nothing. I didn't even know if an air brake was some sort of supplement to a regular braking system. I've seen multiple pedals in semis, so, I'm confused.

I've drove a 24 ft box truck for several years, but never anything with an air brake

Sonny54 wrote:
God willing, my wife and I plan to purchase our first Class A next year. We've done tons of research and know what we want as far as size, layout, etc. We think we might prefer diesel over gas. The problem is: I have never operated an air brake, and I have no idea at all about how it works. I don't wish to buy, then learn, and that would make us lean toward a gas coach.

Perhaps someone can relieve my ignorance here. :)

You push the pedal and the RV stops. Which part of that concerns you?

Thanks everyone. I appreciate the advice.

My best advice to you is at least get an air brake manual from the DMV and read up on air brake usage and how they actually work. Knowing how an air brake system works is key to seeing a problem develop and knowing what to do about it.
Others on here will poo poo my statement but I say then why do class 1 truck drivers need an air brake test?

I don't mean to scare you off, because it really is not that hard to learn about and operate air brakes but if you learn the right way knowledge is safety.
The better alternative is to take an air brake course at a truck driving school, you will think of it as money well spent.
Enjoy your search for your new coach.

I love my air brakes. You might learn about them on the internet.
Call me if you wish.

Theres really not that much difference. You make sure that you have the correct amount of air pressure (gauges) and you never, never pump the brakes as that will release air pressure every time you pump.

All DPs have either an exhaust brake or an engine brake. Utilizing these, you very seldom ever need to use the service (air) brakes unless an emergency, need to stop quickly or come to a complete stop.

It doesn't take much to get use to them, so don't worry about it.

Ron

We want nothing shorter than 34'

Go to the licence bureau and get the training manual for CDL with air brakes. Read and learn. Nothing really special, just good common ¢.

Richard

Air brakes are only on large pushers. So what exactly what size are you looking at?