Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/655311
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 effec- tive as their maintenance routines. "It is critical [brakes] are kept within their adjustment spec, which will give the vehicle even and balanced braking for bet- ter control," says George Bowers, director of maintenance operations, Ryder. "Proper brake inspection is more than just the abil- ity 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 Founda- tion 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 that's assuming you don't need a tow. "If the offi cer deems the unit unsafe, towing will most likely be required," he adds. "Service calls for units on the side of the road take time away from the shop to manage scheduled work." As repair bills and downtime mounts, fl eets consistently cited for violations also risk scaring off potential business. "Customers deciding which carrier to use will also factor safety ratings in to their se- lection," McComsey adds. "So, in addition to the cost of downtime, brake violations may also cause a fl eet to lose business op- portunities." Matthew Mendy, product segment manager, Daimler Trucks North America Aftermarket, says fl eets can actually lower their cost-of-operation by having brake maintenance procedures meet all industry BEST 12 www.FlatbedTruckingJobs.com April 2016 Inspection is key in the life of a braking system PRACTICES By Jason Cannon