How it Works, How to Use, and The Function of the Exhaust Brake Canter

An exhaust brake canter is a device used in canter truck vehicles to assist in the braking process. This device works by adjusting the flow of exhaust gas (exhaust) from the vehicle engine to create an additional braking effect.

By using the exhaust brake, the driver can reduce the need to apply the physical brakes excessively when sliding down a slope or in situations that require a speed reduction. This helps maintain the braking system’s performance and longevity and reduces the risk of overheating the system.

In this article, we will explain how the use of the exhaust brake on a Canter truck can be integrated with the TransTRACK vehicle maintenance system to achieve maximum benefit.

Exhaust brake function on canter trucks

On trucks, the exhaust brake function is essential in increasing safety and braking efficiency. The following are some of the main functions of the exhaust brake on trucks:

Speed Reduction on Steep Slopes

When a truck slides down a steep slope, the risk of losing control due to excessive speed can be very high. The exhaust brake helps to reduce the truck’s speed effectively by creating an additional braking effect through the exhaust pressure being directed back to the engine. This helps the driver control the speed of the truck without relying too much on the physical braking system.

Reducing Load on the Braking System

Overuse of the conventional braking system when sliding down a slope or in a situation requiring reduced speed can cause the braking system to overheat. Exhaust brakes help reduce the load on the braking system by relying on exhaust pressure to provide additional braking. This can extend the service life of braking components and reduce the risk of failure due to overheating.

Brake Savings

By using exhaust brakes, trucks can use less physical brakes. This reduces wear and tear on brake components such as brake linings and brake discs. As a result, maintenance costs and replacement of braking components can be reduced.

Increase Security

The use of an exhaust brake helps reduce the risk of over-speeding when the truck slides down a slope. Drivers can keep the truck’s speed within safe limits and avoid potentially dangerous situations.

Increase Control

The exhaust brake helps improve control over the truck when coasting downhill conditions. This allows the driver to focus more on driving the truck safely and accurately.

Fuel Savings

Although it doesn’t save fuel directly, using an exhaust brake can in some cases help maintain truck speed without having to use gas. Thus, in certain situations, using an exhaust brake can help reduce fuel consumption.

It is important to remember that the exhaust brake should be used judiciously and by the manufacturer’s instructions and road conditions. Overreliance on the exhaust brake in situations requiring intense braking can result in the exhaustion of the engine and exhaust components.

How the exhaust brake canter works

Exhaust brake works by utilizing the principle of exhaust gas from the vehicle engine to create a braking effect. Here are the general steps in how the exhaust brake works:

Exhaust Brake Activation

Usually, the driver can activate or deactivate the exhaust brake via a button or lever located in the vehicle’s cabin. When the exhaust brake is activated, the system will start its working process.

Bypass Valve Closure

Exhaust brakes generally involve a bypass valve located within the vehicle’s exhaust system. When the exhaust brake is engaged, this valve will be closed. This changes the flow of exhaust gas which was originally going straight to the muffler, to be streamed back into the engine.

Increased Pressure in the Engine

By closing the bypass valve, the exhaust gas pressure in the exhaust system will increase. This increased pressure will create resistance to the flow of exhaust gases trying to leave the engine through the muffler.

Braking Effect

The high pressure in the exhaust system creates a braking effect on the engine. This pressure causes the engine to have to fight its normal rotation, which ultimately reduces the rotation rate and engine performance.

Speed Reduction

The braking effect produced by the exhaust brake contributes to reducing vehicle speed. While it is not the same as conventional braking, exhaust brakes help slow the vehicle and put less stress on the main braking system.

Use In Certain Situations

The exhaust brake is most effectively used when sliding down a slope or in situations where the vehicle needs to be gradually slowed down. When the vehicle requires sudden acceleration or braking, the driver still needs to use the conventional gas and brake pedals.

It is important to remember that how the exhaust brake works may vary depending on the design and technology of the particular vehicle. It is always important to refer to the vehicle’s user manual and understand how the specific exhaust brake works on your vehicle.

How to use the exhaust brake on a canter truck

Using the exhaust brake on a truck involves several steps that need to be followed properly. Here are the general steps for using the exhaust brake on a truck:

Make sure the vehicle is in a safe condition

Before activating the exhaust brake, make sure you are on a suitable and safe road to use this feature, such as when sliding down a slope or in a situation that requires gradual braking. Make sure the surrounding area is safe from other vehicles.

Know the Location of the Button or Lever

Identify the location of the button or lever to activate and deactivate the exhaust brake in the truck cab. Usually, these buttons or levers are located near the center console or around the instrument panel.

Control Speed

Make sure the truck is at a safe speed before applying the exhaust brake. You don’t want to engage the exhaust brake when the truck is going too fast.

Activate Exhaust Brake

Activate the exhaust brake by pressing the button or sliding the appropriate lever. Once activated, you will feel a change in the truck’s performance.

Watch for Performance Changes

After the exhaust brake is activated, you will feel an additional braking effect when depressing the accelerator pedal. The truck will start to slow down gradually.

Use Brakes As Needed

Although exhaust brakes assist in braking, remember that they are not the same as conventional brakes. If you need stronger or sudden braking, you still have to use the conventional brake pedal.

Monitor Temperature and Conditions

When using the exhaust brake, monitor the temperature of the engine and braking system regularly. If you see signs of overheating or overheating, temporarily stop using the exhaust brake.

Turn off the Exhaust Brake

Once you no longer need the additional braking effect, you can deactivate the exhaust brake by pressing a button or sliding the lever back to its original position.

Learn and Practice

Using the exhaust brake requires familiarization and practice. Learn how the exhaust brake works on your truck via the user manual and practice it in safe situations to become more familiar with its use.

It is important to always refer to your vehicle’s user manual and follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the use of the exhaust brake. Each truck can have different features and how it works, so make sure you understand the instructions that are appropriate for your vehicle.

In a growing world of transportation, prioritizing the safety, efficiency, and performance of the vehicle fleet is a must. One of the best ways to achieve this goal is to utilize modern technology, such as the use of exhaust brakes on Canter trucks, in combination with the TransTRACK Vehicle Maintenance System.

The use of exhaust brakes on Canter trucks, which are integrated with the TransTRACK Vehicle Maintenance System, brings many benefits to the operation of commercial vehicle fleets. From increased safety to more efficient fuel use and timely maintenance, the synergy between braking technology and monitoring systems is a smart way to manage your fleet.

By taking this step, you can keep your vehicle in optimal condition, provide safety for the driver and cargo, and save on operating costs in the long run.

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