Semi-truck parts tend to wear out faster than passenger car parts. That has a lot to do with the size of the vehicle and the fact that big trucks rack up a lot of miles quickly. Some auto parts, like Jake brakes, can improve the life of a truck. Learn more about Jake brakes, including how they work, whether they’re legal, and whether they affect a truck’s engine.
What is a Jake brake?
Jake brakes are designed to prevent service brake wear. If used correctly, they can add years to a truck’s brakes. They also save tire wear.
“Jake brake” may sound clever because it rhymes, but that’s not the reason for the term.
“The name ‘Jake brake’ comes from a product that, unsurprisingly, is called Jacobs engine brake,” unit reports. “The company that makes them, Jacobs Vehicle Systems, says their system is a diesel engine retarder that the engine uses to help slow the vehicle down. It alters the operation of the engine’s exhaust valve so that the engine acts like an air compressor that consumes energy.”
The generic names are “decompression brakes” and “engine brakes”. They work by opening the exhaust valves of an engine’s cylinders, releasing compressed gas and allowing the truck to slow down.
These brakes are normally used on diesel trucks, not passenger cars. In general, the only other vehicles with these parts are large enough that the standard brakes are not enough to stop them efficiently.
Are jake brakes illegal?
The answer to whether Jake’s braces are illegal depends on the area. Many municipalities agree to the use of engine brakes, while others prohibit them.
That’s mostly because of the noise they make, Matheson Explain. Jacob brakes are great for preventing wear on a truck’s service brakes, but they’re also incredibly loud going downhill. So some places have banned them.
Not a big deal, though, because truckers activate their engine brakes at the flick of a switch, which means they’re not always on. Also, traffic signs should make it clear where and when they are not allowed. They will say things like “Trucks please no brake Jake” or “Engine brakes prohibited”.
But the real question is whether these brakes can damage the truck’s engine.
Can a Jacob brake damage a truck engine?
If you’re using a Jake brake, you may be wondering if you’re damaging your truck’s engine. The answer is yes and no. Keep these points in mind to avoid damage:
Check your oil before a long trip. If your oil level is low, you could damage your rig’s engine. The use of Jacob brakes increases the risk of engine damage.
It is also crucial to let the engine warm up if you plan to use a Jake brake. On time-sensitive trips, it can be frustrating to wait, but it’s best to take a few minutes to warm up the truck before heading out.
Finally, be aware of your engine’s RPM when going downhill. Pushing the RPM above the engine’s maximum limit can cause damage.
If you take the time to follow the steps above, using Jake brakes can save wear and tear on your truck. Just be sure to check the road signs regarding its use. Otherwise, it’s worth the investment.