Diesel Puser Brakes

[Twilite_Lady]

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.

[Executive45]

It may simply be perception. Your "larger" coach will take more distance to stop even with good brakes than your car. Laws of physics. It takes more distance to stop a 49,000 pound rig than a 4600 pound car....but, I think he just wants to have all the fun....Dennis

[aztortuga]

Recommend that you have the brakes checked out to be sure that they are adjusted correctly. New from the factory mine were not, so it is a distinct possibility and one easily corrected. Air brakes "feel" different than hydraulic brakes but not enough to be any problem. If he feels the brakes are not adequate -- have them checked.

[robertbenita]

I will add that if I put my foot on the brake pedal like I used to on my old rv, it required a great deal of effort. Once I adjusted where my foot was on the brake pedal for braking, it requires much less effort or at least seems that way. It is different, but as others have said, if I stood on my brakes (good foot position or not) everything in back would very rapidly be everything if front! If in doubt, have it checked at a truck repair. Or have another rv owner test them for feel. Good luck!

[Bruce_Brown]

If I remember correctly - and I could be wrong, you need to break in your brakes. Go to an open parking lot and do a few hard stops. Don't be afraid to smell a little brake pad. This helps "break the glaze" and set your pads.

Try it, you have nothing to lose.

[JeepBus]

yrusoslo wrote:
they might be out of adjustment

I agree. If the brakes are not adjusted correctly they will not be as effective. Get them checked as soon as you can. As others have said, if they are working correctly they will have no problems stopping your RV.

[FIRE_UP]

Twilite Lady,
You have a PM.
Scott

[Twilite_Lady]

Thanks guys for all the info. He's in Ft Sill right now, due home this weekend. I'll have him read all your replies before we take off next week for TX. And he probably wants to do all the driving. Maybe he'll let me move it in the campground 😉

[the_vfox]

If I stood on my brakes in the Horizon, my toad would be my new hood ornament.

[sdianel_-acct_c]

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

[JimM68]

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

[obgraham]

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.

[Pogoil]

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.

[wallynm]

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.

[imgoin4it]

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.