Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/655308
12 // OWNER OPERATOR // APRIL 2016 By Jason Cannon Maintenance Matters INSPECTION IS KEY IN THE LIFE OF A BRAKING SYSTEM B rake violations were among the three most cited by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) nationwide over a 50-month stretch from December 2010 to February 2015, and were the top offense in 12 states. Advancements in braking systems have helped make today's commercial trucks safer than ever, but they are only as effective as their maintenance routines. "It is critical [brakes] are kept within their adjustment spec, which will give the vehicle even and balanced braking for better control," says George Bowers, director of maintenance operations, Ryder. "Proper brake inspection is more than just the ability to stop the vehicle. It is about vehicle control." Inspection is also a key step in extending the life of the brake system itself. "Issues identifi ed through inspection might eliminate accelerated wear, brake component damage and/or damage to other components within the system," says Keith McComsey, director, marketing and customer solutions, Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake LLC. Safety and wear-and-tear aside, failing a brake inspection can also be expensive. "A breakdown is a tremendous loss of productivity, effi ciency and uptime," says Randy Petresh, vice president, technical services, Haldex. Bowers says the cost of a brake-related mobile service repair can easily exceed $1,000, and