Diesel Puser Brakes

Air brakes (assume that is what yours has-- please confirm) DO feel quite a lot different than hydraulic brakes. Not better or worse, just different. And, yes they will take more effort than the vacuum boosted hydraulic brakes in your car.

They are also used differently than hydraulic brakes. For example you do NOT pump them.

You really should both learn how air brakes work and about their "care and feeding". Be safe out there.

I do not know about Arizona, but in many states, if the GVWR is over 26,000 pounds they require a special drivers license. And the written test will have questions about air brakes.

Learn to use your compression brake on the tranny to assist. It helps improve braking power.

I just checked the specs and it's a Freightliner chassis with air brakes. I'll pass the info on to him. Thank you so much.

they might be out of adjustment

Not likely except it did happen to me. Had an oil leak on the driver side wheel bearing that lubricated the brake pad. Could stand on the brakes and it would hardly stop.

Ask DH how many OTR rigs have a lady driver. Many trucking companies now want to have team drivers that are husband and wife. I suggest he simply wants to do all the driving.

As others have said air brakes are different not harder to use. By the way even on a gasser with anti lock brakes you do not want to pump them. FTL chassis probably has anti lock brakes also. Our does.

Twilite Lady wrote:
We traded in our gasser for a larger diesel pusher. Hubby wanted one... He says that when he steps on the brakes that he really has to push hard to slow it down. Is this "normal" for a diesel pusher or is this a problem? He also says that because of this he doesn't think I should try to drive it. Thank for the help.

Go to the local DMV office and pick up a CDL. book and read it especially the brake portion and you will be a much safer driver.

Do your brake check often.

Pogoil.

On my rig, also Freightliner chassis, the air brakes were VERY effective. Stand on that pedal hard enough and all our stuff would wind up against the windshield.

Give him time.
I think he is enjoying the ride so much he doesn't want to share....

Use your exhaust brake engine brake) to slow down. Use the brakes to stop. I drive our DP with no problem. Maybe he wants all the fun! LOL