Safety on the road cannot be compromised, especially when it comes to the efficacy of your trailer’s brake system. At Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc. in Decatur, IL, we prioritize your safety. With a seasoned team of technicians, we understand the intricacies of brake systems and the importance of their regular maintenance. Brake issues can range from simple wear and tear to more complex problems that demand a professional touch. Our well-equipped workshop is designed to handle a spectrum of brake repair tasks. With cutting-edge diagnostic tools and a dedicated team that stays updated with the latest repair techniques, we assure our clients of prompt and reliable brake repair solutions. Whether it’s a routine brake check or a comprehensive repair job, our focus remains the same: ensuring your trailer is safe and roadworthy.
Air Brake Repair
Air brakes, commonly found on large vehicles like buses, trucks, and trailers, operate on a different principle than the traditional hydraulic brakes used in smaller vehicles. When a driver presses the brake pedal, air pressure is released, activating the brake mechanism and slowing down or stopping the vehicle. Several signs can indicate a potential problem. A continuous hissing noise might suggest an air leak in the system. Another sign is the brake pedal feels softer or requires more pressure than usual. If the air pressure warning light on the dashboard illuminates or the pressure gauge shows low pressure, these can be immediate indicators that something is amiss.
Additionally, if the vehicle takes longer than usual to come to a complete stop or if it pulls to one side when braking, these might be signs of wear or issues in the brake system. It’s recommended to routinely check the air compressor, ensuring it maintains the right pressure levels. Air dryers should be inspected and serviced regularly to prevent moisture from entering the system, which can lead to corrosion and malfunction. Brake linings and pads should be checked for wear and replaced when necessary. It’s also vital to periodically examine the brake drums and rotors for signs of damage. Scheduled professional inspections with our team at Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc. in Decatur, IL, can help spot and address potential problems early on, preventing costly repairs.
Disc Brake Repair
Disc brakes function through a set of calipers that squeeze brake pads against a disc, or rotor, to create friction and slow down the vehicle. This system provides effective and consistent stopping power for many vehicles, from small cars to larger trucks. Some signs that may indicate the need for a repair include a grinding or squealing noise when braking, a pulsating brake pedal, or the vehicle veering to one side when the brakes are applied. Moreover, if the brake warning light on your dashboard illuminates, it’s a clear indication that an inspection is due. For the longevity and optimal performance of your disc brakes, regular maintenance is paramount.
It’s advisable to check the brake pads for wear periodically; if they become too thin, they’ll need replacing to prevent damage to the rotors. Speaking of rotors, they should also be inspected for any warping or damage. Keeping the brake fluid at the right level and ensuring it remains uncontaminated is crucial, as it plays a vital role in the hydraulic function of disc brakes. At Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc. in Decatur, IL, we recommend scheduling professional inspections and maintenance to guarantee the efficiency and safety of your disc braking system.
ABS Brake Repair
The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is a specialized system designed to prevent the wheels of a vehicle from locking up during hard braking situations, thereby allowing the driver to maintain steering control. Unlike air brakes, which utilize compressed air, the ABS operates through electronic sensors and high-pressure hydraulic systems. When the system detects a potential wheel lock-up, it modulates brake pressure to ensure optimal tire-to-road contact, enhancing the vehicle’s stability. Some common indicators include the illumination of the ABS warning light on your dashboard, unusual noises when applying the brakes, or a less responsive brake pedal. Additionally, if you notice your vehicle skidding more than usual during hard braking, even if the ABS light isn’t on, it’s a good indication that the system might need a check.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your ABS functioning at its best. Regular maintenance includes routinely checking the brake fluid level and ensuring its purity, as contaminated fluid can affect the system’s performance. The wheel speed sensors, which play a crucial role in detecting wheel lock-ups, should be kept clean and free from debris. Periodically inspecting the brake lines and hoses for any signs of wear or damage is also vital. Schedule your maintenance check-up with our team at Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc. in Decatur, IL.
Brake Valve Repair
Brake valves control the flow and release of compressed air in the braking system, ensuring that the vehicle stops efficiently and safely. Different from standard hydraulic brakes, air brakes rely on a series of valves, including relay valves, quick-release valves, and safety valves, among others, to function optimally. If you experience inconsistent braking power, where sometimes the brakes seem overly aggressive or, conversely, too weak, it could be due to a malfunctioning valve. An unusual hissing noise while braking, a build-up of air pressure taking longer than usual, or the air pressure warning light illuminating can all point towards potential valve issues.
Maintenance is the key to the safe and smooth operation of an air brake system, particularly the valves. Regularly draining the air tanks to remove any accumulated moisture can prevent corrosion and malfunction of the valves. It’s also recommended to inspect the valves periodically for signs of wear or damage, ensuring they’re clean and free from debris or contaminants. Brake lines and hoses connected to the valves should be checked for any signs of wear, cracking, or damage. Entrust your brake valve upkeep and repairs to our team at Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc. Call 217.422.7179 today to schedule an appointment for quality semi-truck & trailer brake repair services.
