Understanding the Dilemma of Misadjusted Brakes
When it comes to vehicle safety and performance, few systems are as critical as the braking system. However, many drivers often overlook the importance of proper brake adjustment. A set of brakes that is out of alignment can lead to a host of problems, including decreased stopping power, uneven tire wear, and even dangerous driving conditions. In this post, we’ll delve into the mystery of brakes that are out of adjustment, exploring the signs to look for, the potential causes, and, most notably, how to resolve these issues. Whether you’re a seasoned or new driver, understanding your brakes can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and smooth ride.
In this issue:
- International Road-check 2025 May 13-15.
- FMCSA Q&A
- Registration is now open online for the 2025 Idealease/NPTC Spring Safety Seminar!
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Check out past Idealease Safety Bulletins.
Why do our units receive “brake out of adjustment” violations if we have automatic slack adjusters on our units?
Despite the requirement for automatic slack adjusters on trucks and tractors since 1994 and on trailers since 1995, brake adjustment violations persist. In fact, “Defective Brakes” was the top violation during the 2024 CVSA International Roadcheck.
One reason for this is that automatic slack adjusters are mechanical components that can fail if not properly maintained, leading to brakes being out of adjustment. Inspecting and lubricating the slack adjusters on all commercial vehicles every 90 days is essential.
Another factor involves how automatic slack adjusters operate. Professional drivers typically maintain a safe distance from the vehicles ahead of them. When braking, they usually apply 15% to 25% air. In defensive situations, they may apply brakes with over 60% air, often called “Panic Stops” or “Rapid Deceleration Occurrences.” Research shows that most professional drivers make fewer than six of these hard stops for every 1,000 miles driven.
In many International trucks, “Stroke-Sensitive” automatic adjusters are used. These adjusters engage during the return stroke but only when the brake application exceeds 60%. This means that the better a driver is, the less chance there is for the automatic system to make adjustments.
To ensure that brakes remain appropriately adjusted, we recommend the following:
- Pre-Trip Inspection: When the vehicle is stationary, perform 10 complete brake applications. Each set of 10 brake applications will adjust the slack adjuster by about ½ inch. Incorporating this step into your pre-trip inspection helps maintain proper brake adjustment. If you anticipate a roadside inspection, make sure to repeat this process beforehand to ensure you are in compliance.
- Low Air Pressure Warning Device Check: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, drivers must inspect the low air pressure warning device during the pre-trip inspection. This device should emit a warning sound at 60 psi. The air pressure must be reduced to 60 psi to verify its functionality. When performing this check, if the driver fully applies and then releases the brakes, the air pressure should decrease by about four psi with each application.
Squeaking Brakes
Another issue that can arise from “feathering” or low-psi brake applications is noisy brakes during stops. This noise is often due to crystallized brake linings, which can develop when brakes are continually applied with low pressure. Reduce this problem by making four or five firm brake applications or performing rapid deceleration stops. If your brakes are making noise, consider bringing your vehicle to a stop using this method several times a week. Remember to ensure that no other vehicles closely follow you while doing this. Lastly, if a driver notices that their brakes are not functioning correctly, it’s important to report this to their service provider in their daily vehicle inspection report. Drivers should NOT manually adjust automatic slack adjusters—this should only be performed by a trained technician.
Use the Following Links to Access Idealease Pre and Post trip training videos:
English:
Tractor Trailer- https://youtu.be/9TL62H5yUQA
Straight Truck- https://youtu.be/rsUTQrN-514
Spanish:
Tractor Trailer- https://www.youtube.com/embed/529XGiJxTfU
Straight Truck- https://www.youtube.com/embed/SDvbuAuKQLM
International Road-Check 2025, May 13-15.
International Roadcheck is a three-day annual event where certified Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) inspectors carry out various compliance, enforcement, and educational activities to enhance safety for motor carriers, vehicles, and drivers.
Recognized as the largest enforcement program targeting commercial motor vehicles worldwide, International Roadcheck conducts inspections on nearly 15 trucks and motorcoaches every minute across North America during the 72-hour window.
Since its launch in 1988, the program has led to over 1.8 million roadside inspections. It reinforces the importance of safety in commercial vehicle operations and educates the industry and the public about the significance of the roadside inspection process.
CVSA sponsors international Roadcheck in collaboration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators, Transport Canada, and Mexico’s Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation.
The upcoming International Roadcheck is set for May 13-15, 2025.
Safely getting in or out of a Commercial Motor Vehicle
It’s important to remind drivers about the three-point rule when entering and exiting their trucks, especially during the winter when slippery conditions heighten the risk of falls.
The three-point rule is straightforward: always maintain three out of four contact points (hands and feet) to enhance stability and prevent accidents. For instance, when getting out of a truck, a driver should keep one hand on the cab handle, one hand on the interior door handle, and one foot on a step while the other is moving. This practice ensures continuous three-point contact, maximizing safety and reducing the chance of slipping.
What do the FMCSA regulations say about my driver, who has a current medical certification but has developed a medical condition that would make operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) questionable and possibly unsafe?
The FMCSA regulations state that a driver must not start or continue to drive if they are impaired in their ability or alertness due to fatigue, illness, or any other condition that compromises the safe operation of a commercial vehicle. Even if a driver possesses a valid medical certificate, they are prohibited from driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) if they have a medical condition that disqualifies or poses risks to safe driving. After resolving any disqualifying medical issue, the driver must receive a recertification from a Medical Examiner before they can resume operating a CMV.
Reference: FMCSA CFR 391.45
Registration is now open online for the 2025 Idealease/NPTC Spring Safety Seminars!
Idealease and the National Private Truck Council NPTC will again be hosting safety seminars in the spring and fall of 2025. The one-day seminar this year will focus on basic safety and compliance, regulation changes and CSA. The seminars and will be provided to all Idealease customers, potential customers and NPTC members at no charge. The seminar provides important information applicable for both the novice and experienced transportation professionals.
Spring Seminars 2025
- 4/16/2025 – Dallas, TX
- 4/21/2025 – Hudsonville, MI
- 4/23/2025 – Brookfield, WI
- 4/29/2025 – San Leandro, CA
- 5/1/2025 – Portland, OR
- TBD – Harrisburg, PA
- TBD – Columbia, SC
- TBD – Miami, FL
- 5/15/2025 – Tampa, FL
To register for an upcoming spring seminar in 2025, click on the following link:
Safety Seminar Registration
Note: Fall seminars will be announced in a later bulletin.
*The Idealease Safety Bulletin is provided for Idealease locations and their customers and is not to be construed as a complete or exhaustive source of compliance or safety information. The Idealease Safety Bulletin is advisory in nature and does not warrant, guarantee, or otherwise certify compliance with laws, regulations, requirements, or guidelines of any local, state, or Federal agency and/or governing body, or industry standards.