Air brakes on Class A diesel pusher

It sound like you are not talking about the air brakes but about an exhaust brake. One that blocks the exhaust and thus slowing the coach. This will not stop you but will slow you down.

My exhaust brake is ON all the time except on Icey roads.

I rarely use me foot brake except at traffic lights, very slow traffic. I coast a lot. so dont leave my exhaust brake on all the time but switch it on when I want to slow down. A gentle tap of the brake will force a downshift which will slow things down in a hurry.

It could be an exhaust brake or a Jake brake but these devices have nothing at all to do with your air brakes. I would leave either brake on at all times during normal driving conditions as it will help you stop faster should that be necessary and it will save your brakes while headed downhill by using the engine braking power to slow you down.

Air brakes work when you press the pedal. Just like Hydraulics but with a few differences I won't bother go into (For more info see if your state publishes a book with a title something like "What Every Commercical Driver Must Know" I have a copy. handy reference book.

You are describing exhaust brake. Some areas do not allow but as someone else said. other than nasty road.. Use 'em.

The air brakes cannot be switched on and off, you are operating the engine retarder. Here air brake training and an endorsement are required even for non commercial vehicles, Oregon may do the same. Check with the dmv, you really need to be familiar with the system.

I'd be reading the owner's manual.

flyboykuao wrote:
Hello, we recently purchased a Fleetwood diesel pusher. We have been on 3 short trips with it. It is equipped with air brakes - when switched on the RV will slow when my foot is off the pedal. I read up, and now understand, how they work. What I am not clear on is WHEN to use them. I assume one scenario is when on a steep downgrade. What about using them during normal travel as a way to save the brakes?

I am interested in your recommendations. Thanks in advance.

The way I read this is, you don't turn airbrakes on or off, so you must be talking a engine retarder, there are several types depending upon the engine manufacturer.

I turn mine on when I need it.

You can use the exhaust brake all the time. However, doing so will hurt your fuel mileage as the coach will not coast nearly as well. The only time you really need it is in the mountains on a downgrade. Then it is priceless.

You guys are correct, air brakes do not turn on and off, they are constantly on with the engine start. Most diesel pushers have a gauge or trouble lights on the dash showing that brakes and airbags are fully aired up.

As for the slowdown you've noticed its your exhaust break or Jake brake that is slowing you down. You should see a three position switch on the dash allowing you to set it to High (maximum of breaking), Low and off.

Most folks leave the exhaust brake on at all times EXCEPT in icy or wet conditions. Especially true if your coach has a tag axle.