What Every Truck Driver Should Know About Engine Braking (AKA the Jake Brake!)

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  • Опубликовано: 22 май 2024
  • What Every Trucker Should Know About Engine Braking (AKA the Jake Brake!)
    Every truck driver should know how to best utilize their truck's engine brake. In this video, we talk about what the jake brake is, how it works and most importantly, best use of the Jake Brake.
    The Jake Brake is one of the most underused safety tools of the professional truck driver. Many new truckers as well as some of the more experienced drivers, don’t know the potential of this tool and how to use it to get the best results.
    There are 3 positions to the Jake Brake settings:
    Position 1 - Lowest braking power
    Position 2 - Moderate braking power
    Position 3 - Strongest braking power
    The Jake Brake can be used in adverse weather and road conditions, but with adjustments, caution and common sense.
    Never use the Jake on ice. No truck driver should be operating on an icy road.
    In slippery conditions, it can be utilized with caution, depending on the weight in the trailer, terrain etc.
    A Lower Position can be adequate to add to ‘braking’ power.
    It can be an invaluable tool, if used correctly, and if the Jacob’s Brake is set up correctly (not just a lot of noise, but actually functioning correctly).
    More Related Videos
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    • Tips and Tricks For Ja...
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Комментарии • 779

  • @yerPickle
    @yerPickle 3 года назад +257

    The sound of the Jake brake is comforting, reassuring me that I won't smoke the pads and over speed.

  • @PissBoys
    @PissBoys 3 года назад +122

    Sign: No Engine Brake Use In Town
    Billy Bobtail: haha jake go brrr

    • @halkael2317
      @halkael2317 3 года назад +18

      I alway figure that my jake is way quieter than the screaming family in a crushing car. Haha... kinda different if empty or bobtail tho
      “Runaway lanes are for those who use their brakes”

    • @AntiFakeJewsRev2-9-0Zach9-6
      @AntiFakeJewsRev2-9-0Zach9-6 3 года назад

      Only Cat/Cummins are that annoying

    • @Robert-pv6cn
      @Robert-pv6cn 3 года назад +8

      I always laugh: No using your safety devices while in town.

  • @Alex462047
    @Alex462047 3 года назад +59

    To me, the sound of the Jake brake is the sound of 50 tonnes holding speed going downhill without me touching the brakes. It is a very welcome sound in that way.

  • @Godsl7ragon
    @Godsl7ragon 3 года назад +70

    I grew up on a somewhat steep hill that trucks often traveled. I used to love hearing the Jake when though I didn't know what the sound was at the time. I Also used to crank my arm to get them to use the air horns. Those positive experiences led me to be a truck driver and now I'm 5 years into my career and working at a company that treats me well.

  • @matthewcross8076
    @matthewcross8076 3 года назад +23

    Starting When i was 8 it was my job to flip the jake on and off for my grandfather while we were coming down steep winding grades. Looking back it was Usually because we were dodging scales haha. But even when i was 8 years old 20 years ago i knew the value and importance of the jake break

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +10

      One of the greatest inventions in trucking!

  • @WillCarter1976
    @WillCarter1976 3 года назад +82

    I've tried multiple times to explain to drivers that the "jacobs engine retarder" doesn't actually induce differential friction force between the tire and the road surface as actual service brakes do. "Jake brakes", instead slow down engine rpm and slow down the drive shaft. It basically creates drag on the engine. It works because it counteracts momentum and the natural inertia of the truck in motion tending to want to keep rolling.
    The reason service brakes are problematic on slippery roads is that they cause differential speed between the tire and the road surface. This leads to slippage and loss of traction because you've induced differential speed between the tire and the road surface that exceeds the ability of the tire to grip.
    I use mine in all weather, and have never had a problem. It saves tire wear and service brake wear. I change tires every 350k miles and brakes on average of 600-700k miles, usually just to leave no "interpretation" if I get pulled for inspection.
    I can't imagine how dangerous trucking was for drivers before they had all these amazing tools. You really have to respect the old timers and their experience with older equipment.
    My job today is far easier and more comfortable than in their time and I'm very thankful for that fact every day on the road. The trucks of today are basically working RVs compared to the rubber block suspension bench seat trucks and COEs of the 50's through early 90's.

    • @theronash7269
      @theronash7269 3 года назад +6

      Jakes save on every component.

    • @randomlyentertaining8287
      @randomlyentertaining8287 2 года назад +9

      I'd say the easiest way to explain it is that Jake Brakes works by not letting the truck pick up speed in the first place by limiting engine RPM whereas normal brakes work by forcibly slowing your tires down.

    • @sandasturner9529
      @sandasturner9529 2 года назад +3

      Much appreciated

  • @valuedhumanoid6574
    @valuedhumanoid6574 3 года назад +4

    There's a trucker who lives just outside of town and he snatches that Jake Brake when he passes my house. The speed limit drops from 50 to 35 and he refuses to just coast down to speed. It used to irritate me because it would wake up my sons. But now they're grown up I don't care. It's like "brrrrrapapapaapapap oh...there's Roy. He's home early this week."

  • @deantait8326
    @deantait8326 7 дней назад

    I watched a runaway truck coming down the Bakersfield side of the Grapevine…. It was about 57-59 and they were in the airborn, passenger hanging out of the window, waving his arms wildly and screaming. My grandpa saw it in the mirror and told me to watch… it was both terrifying and exciting.
    Thankfully about 7-10 miles after the road flattened out… they were pulled off to the side of the road and were shaken but fine

  • @batsinthehead1
    @batsinthehead1 3 года назад +59

    As a newer driver I love the Jake breaks, they really do make things safer and helped me a lot when I was learning.

  • @cheesynoodle8775
    @cheesynoodle8775 3 года назад +5

    Off topic comment. I dont know about all you old timers and such, but I unironicly enjoy listening to "east bound and down" while running loads

    • @jimanon634
      @jimanon634 3 года назад +2

      They're thirsty in Atlanta, and there's beer in Texarcana....lol

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +2

      It's a great trucking tune, one of the best!

  • @salstonightsbiggestloser
    @salstonightsbiggestloser 3 года назад +22

    I laughed out loud when he said Cajon Pass, I've had 2 trucks break down there 1 going up, and 1 going down from Hesperia. Oh the joys of trucking! Stay safe everyone, enjoy the ride!

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +3

      Good stuff, thank you for watching!

  • @loganbaileysfunwithtrains606
    @loganbaileysfunwithtrains606 3 года назад +42

    I love how a crucial safety device gets banned because it’s loud, like Jake brakes and train horns, locomotives use something similar it’s a dynamic brake and it draws power from the traction motors and transfers it into excess heat that gets vented, doesn’t sound nearly as cool, just kinda sounds like a jet engine

    • @asherdie
      @asherdie 3 года назад +9

      Ironic that firearm silencers are taxed because they muffle.

  • @AK47HEAVYMETAL83
    @AK47HEAVYMETAL83 3 года назад +41

    I’ve driven for 8 years now and have used jakes from the moment I started driving 😂😂😂 I use mine 90% of the time lol I absolutely hate it when I get into a truck and the Jake doesn’t work for Jack! It’s an absolute must for me. Good video!

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +7

      Thanks for watching! The jake is a must have for me as well.

  • @bradleyselk9642
    @bradleyselk9642 3 года назад +155

    The best time to use your jakes is in a truck stop parking lot at 2:00 am.
    Edit:I'm being sarcastic if you can't tell.

    • @swaghauler8334
      @swaghauler8334 3 года назад +15

      Tell that to CR England! Between the Jake and the damned Refer, they make sure EVERYBODY knows they are there.

    • @kelkel3201
      @kelkel3201 3 года назад +14

      and then start a regen next to the guy sleeping!

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +21

      Made me laugh right out loud Bradley!

    • @AntiFakeJewsRev2-9-0Zach9-6
      @AntiFakeJewsRev2-9-0Zach9-6 3 года назад +4

      Some idiots have done it for real unfortunately 🙄

    • @TheTruelakersfan
      @TheTruelakersfan 3 года назад

      Lmao

  • @jkearney5001
    @jkearney5001 3 года назад +24

    I use mine 90% of the time. Even when pulling an empty flat and especially on wet roads. It helps to avoid locking the trailer tires when there's no weight on them.

    • @theronash7269
      @theronash7269 3 года назад +6

      Far safer and no wear. When I have had to touch my brakes in the rain I have had nasty surprises, a wet brake drum grabs different and it can veer unexpectedly..

  • @EMDSD40T2
    @EMDSD40T2 3 года назад +16

    I use it all the time, especially when I'm going through Portland 😁

  • @brad202684
    @brad202684 3 года назад +15

    I work for a big LTL carrier and I run between Sacramento and Reno every day. Even though we mostly have newer automatic Freightliner Cascadia tractors, the engine brakes work really well on them. I can do the whole run over the hill, and barely have to touch the brakes with the transmission locked in 9th or 10th gear going down the hills especially coming westbound off Blue Canyon and down the 3-mile coming into Colfax

  • @markofexcellence5209
    @markofexcellence5209 3 года назад +12

    I saw a sign in Du Quoin, Illinois. It said something like "please do not engine brake unless required for emergencies." I respect that a whole of a lot more.

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +4

      Yup, nothing wrong with that!

    • @jimmytrussel488
      @jimmytrussel488 3 года назад +4

      i see that a lot in small rural towns in wisconsin

    • @josevaldez918
      @josevaldez918 3 года назад

      If you have an emergency the jake brake is the last thing you are going to use the jake has no emergency use

    • @jerrykinnin7941
      @jerrykinnin7941 3 года назад

      I see the sign allot that says. "Use of unmuffled Exhaust brakes illegal."
      That makes sense.

  • @kenriley2471
    @kenriley2471 3 года назад +11

    In the 90's when I was a snot nosed kid the truck I was running did not have Jake brakes. I was going across Meachum one morning and I stopped and picked up an old timer who had tagged a deer and cracked his radiator. I pulled off into the brake check area to check my brakes before going down Cabbage. The look on his face was priceless when he found out I did not have Jakes. In the few minutes it took to check my brakes that old timer had got on my CB and had another trucker stopping to take him down the hill. It's a good life.

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +1

      That's funny!

    • @frankjdm4636
      @frankjdm4636 3 года назад +1

      I would probably get out too and find someone with jakes 😂

    • @starmaster191
      @starmaster191 3 года назад +3

      i currently live about 20 to 30 miles west of meacham, cabbage and deadman passs small world!

  • @bryanbrandenburg2043
    @bryanbrandenburg2043 3 года назад +15

    idk about any other, but my truck school straight ignored the Jake. I taught myself at my first job

    • @jerrykinnin7941
      @jerrykinnin7941 3 года назад +1

      My trainer said of the Jake Brake. Just roll your window down stick your head out and go "Burrrrrrrrrrrr" youll slow down just as fast.
      Hint. That does not work. Ha.

    • @aaronsanborn4291
      @aaronsanborn4291 2 года назад +1

      @@jerrykinnin7941 your trainer has zero clue

    • @aaronsanborn4291
      @aaronsanborn4291 2 года назад +1

      Bryan I learned as a kid, I'm 2nd gen but didn't get my CDL until I was in my late 30s after the Army. My instructors were fans of the Jake and taught us when to use them.

  • @enginesandoutdoors3238
    @enginesandoutdoors3238 3 года назад +33

    I use to live in a small town where the main road was on roughly an 18%-20% grade and at the bottom there was a decently busy railroad crossing. There is a no engine braking sign but I don’t think any of us ever judged a trucker for doing his best not to slam into the side of a train. I remember my brother and I climbing out the window and sitting on the porch roof watching the trucks go by. We would try and get them to blast the horn or listen to the jakes thunder down the hill.

    • @KangX92
      @KangX92 3 года назад +3

      @@erikmeyer5207 some backroads have very steep grades , the biggest I’ve seen is 12% in Pennsylvania and I’ve only been otr for a year.

    • @swaghauler8334
      @swaghauler8334 3 года назад +2

      @@KangX92 In the "PA Wilds" aka The Allegheny National Forest or over by the Pocono's? I've been down BootJack Summit in the ANF many times.

    • @enginesandoutdoors3238
      @enginesandoutdoors3238 3 года назад +1

      @@erikmeyer5207 there’s a road sign that says 18% I’m not kidding

  • @jamesdow1795
    @jamesdow1795 3 года назад +89

    Just so you 'SUPER TRUCKERS' know, some of us company drivers operate 2020 models that activate the brake lights when the Jake is being used. You can stop whining on the CB about us burning up our service brakes. we are actually aware of the stupidity of the function and apologize for it.

    • @allanj4576
      @allanj4576 2 года назад +7

      I always get a chuckle when some dumb dumb comes on the radio to natter at another driver for this, these systems have been out for years and they still aren't aware of it.

    • @katjerouac
      @katjerouac 2 года назад +32

      It's not stupid. Keeps the guy behind you from rear-ending you if he can't tell you're slowing down

  • @jcoolman4854
    @jcoolman4854 Год назад +2

    Wonderful. Lesson learned. I've always believed once the vehicle is straight you won't have problem with the Jake.

  • @Whowhatwherewhy
    @Whowhatwherewhy 3 года назад +63

    Between the Jake brake and dropping gears, I didn’t need use my brakes all that much.
    Great video, Dave. Thanks

    • @kellypatterson8506
      @kellypatterson8506 3 года назад +8

      Yup, good gear selection and jakes can handle pretty much any load hill combo.

    • @nitemareman1
      @nitemareman1 3 года назад +2

      Jakes use more fuel tho.

    • @michaellee5399
      @michaellee5399 3 года назад +22

      @@nitemareman1 jakes dont use fuel your right foot does

    • @kellypatterson8506
      @kellypatterson8506 3 года назад +2

      @@michaellee5399 lol... thats funny.

  • @patriotastronomer6780
    @patriotastronomer6780 3 года назад +19

    I drove otr for just over two years where I learned about using the Jake Brake on many mountain passes. I made the change to being a local driver and went into the concrete business driving mixer trucks. I have been fortunate enough to get trucks that did have a Jake on them, and that was very reassuring, not to mention safer. I have talked to people that say that having a Jake on mixers is a waste, and I beg to differ. I think that it really depends on the region you are operating in. I am currently driving a truck without one (as many newer trucks do not have them, being deemed as non-essential, and an extra expense). The only way to alleviate problems is to drive much slower on approaching grades. I hate to admit it, there have been times that I had to really get into the brakes, and the smell is not pleasant and kind of embarrassing when you get to the job site (not to mention the wear and tear on your equipment). You are taught to have a sense of urgency having a perishable/live load, you just have to use really good judgment on when to be urgent and safe at the same time. It is also really good to have excellent directions, and have good knowledge of the route. I find it interesting how companies push safety, safety, safety, then hold back on the tools that would make you a more safe driver.

    • @mr.butterworth4216
      @mr.butterworth4216 3 года назад +6

      I think it’s less about safety, safety, safety, and more about money, money, money, with as little liability as possible.

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +5

      Yeah, too cheap to practice what they preach. They should be embarrassed.

    • @truckinforjesus
      @truckinforjesus 3 года назад +3

      If memory serves me right, the older mixers, such as mid-seventies on down, weren't ever equipped with anything other than service (and parking) brakes. There was a PTO type system that turned the drum instead of hydraulic used on newer equipment. Point is, manufacturer's weren't comfortable with the weight of a full drum having a direct connection to the motor on top of the normal braking demands of the GVW. Don't take this as gospel, it's been 25 years since I've been around mud trucks and I probably remember some information incorrectly. Ask around to see if this sounds familiar. I may need a refresher course haha!

  • @O1dmanwalker
    @O1dmanwalker 3 года назад +4

    My Jake saved my life on a icy downhill road in pa it was the only thing to slow me down

  • @iamlightborne5137
    @iamlightborne5137 2 года назад +3

    I was getting ready to say in not one video none of you guys show you actually pressing the engine brakes and what they look like to a new person like myself that's never used one. So thank you for being the smart guy you are and checking all your bases and providing us that information which is very useful and you used them all three back to back and made me feel comfortable in doing the same, so thank you very much.

  • @trollsymctroll5361
    @trollsymctroll5361 2 года назад +6

    I’ve been driving an automatic for 7 years. I decided it was time for a change and knew a test drive on a manual was inevitable for new employment. Thanks for the great refresher videos for the confidence I was looking for and I got the job.

  • @gamingingalaxy4011
    @gamingingalaxy4011 2 года назад +2

    I can’t even imagine driving without a jake break. Its a must have feature in any truck in my opinion.

  • @CSEmoRanger
    @CSEmoRanger 3 года назад +12

    I ride a freight shaker, that jake brake has been my friend my first day behind the wheel. Hell even my adaptive cruise control which uses the jake brake on its own was like my second trainer when I went solo for the first time.

  • @robinrowe1846
    @robinrowe1846 3 года назад +18

    This man is on point with his info. I am from Jamaica with very steep hills

  • @benjaminvillasenor9064
    @benjaminvillasenor9064 3 года назад +2

    Thank you sir for all your videos. I read many dumb comments here, zero appreciation.

  • @The_JEB
    @The_JEB 3 года назад +24

    A friend of mine uses his Jake Brake in town because we live in a giant bowl, you've probably been through my town once or twice on your forays through BC. He got fined for using it down a steep hill that has a lighted intersection right at the end, he went to court and said "this may not get the fine taken away, but I think that my full loaded logging truck's jake brake is a lot quieter going down that hill than it does slamming through your house". Not sure what came of it after that, but i'd have to agree with him

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +11

      I agree with him too. He should have won that court case. I'm a bit surprised a local cop would ticket him for that!

    • @The_JEB
      @The_JEB 3 года назад +9

      @@SmartTrucking you might have been through my town in your forays through BC. There is a sign that says "no engine brakes $250 fine" half way down that hill but I have yet to hear one truck follow that sign, because a $250 fine is a hell of a lot cheaper than plowing through 10 cars and the intersection

    • @darwinpayette1563
      @darwinpayette1563 3 года назад +3

      That is 95% of the towns in BC (north or east) of Hope. They are at the bottom of a hill and they all have those ridiculous signs at the top of the hill that leads into them.

    • @theronash7269
      @theronash7269 3 года назад +1

      Glazed brakes are way noisier and more annoying to me, and way more dangerous than a Jake. People who don't drive a truck don't understand.

  • @pennywise1003
    @pennywise1003 2 года назад +1

    Going thru Pennsylvania today trying to not use the jake brake in heavy rain today like my mentor said stabbing the brakes to keep the 20k lbs on my trailer going on these 5-7% grades in heavy rain was not working I would slow down but the rain was causing the trailer to slide sideways I had truck fly by I could hear there jakes on finally I gave up and turned them on level one and it made a big difference never slipped and held those hills perfect I was slowing down before a hill down to 50-55 mph just so I could coast down and brake before a corner and try and bring it down from 63-55 mph but the three second rule on stab braking was not slowing me down enough with wet brakes. Thankfully I gave up that method and went with the jake brake it worked like a charm I could even tap the throttle to keep it off and let it do it’s thing towards the start of each corner. The rig was holding the lane fine. When applying the brakes I found myself sliding a bit but the jakes didn’t slide. I will use them in rain on straights before a corner now

  • @mrmyorky5634
    @mrmyorky5634 10 дней назад

    Interesting, I was using the Jake brake on my motorbike long before I'd ever heard of the term.
    Fifty years ago when bikes were basic single cylinder machines and brakes were hardly adequate, I accidentally pulled the valve lifter open on my 500cc single cylinder Ariel and realised how effective it was as a brake. It gave almost infinite smooth control when used in conjunction with the throttle opening to the degree that I used it all the time. The greater the throttle opening and the better the retardation. The only thing to remember is to close the throttle before releasing the valve lifter.

  • @MikeBrown-ii3pt
    @MikeBrown-ii3pt 3 года назад +6

    The first tractor that I bought (and still own), a Cummins powered 1995 Freightliner FLD12064, doesn't have Jakes. It never bothered me because dad an grandpa taught me how to run grades LONG before Jakes became common so, I never had a problem. Every tractor I've bought since then has had Jakes though. Like you, I normally run all 3 heads and only turn them off completely is on ice.
    With all that said, how about a video on why it's important to have and know how to use a power divider a.k.a. differential lock. Even in the summer months, I see MANY drivers "stuck" in short, steep loading docks because after unloading, their rear drive axle is off the ground. I can't believe how many of them don't know they have one, let alone how/when to use it! These days, my tractors all have full lockers so when I flip that switch, all 8 have power.

  • @pankajpurushram1055
    @pankajpurushram1055 3 года назад +11

    And I always run my jakes on stage 2 .I jump to stage 3 when I am running anything over 45,000lbs and I keep the rev under 15 and I have no issues..

  • @Mark-jl6tl
    @Mark-jl6tl 3 года назад +2

    Well Said. However, I disagree with your comments on the CAT Brakesaver. I drove two 359’s with them, and they worked far better than any Jakes that we had on our 3406’s at the time. I do believe those Jakes did need adjustments, but they weren’t my regular trucks. But the two B/S’s that I drove worked incredibly well. Dropping off the Grapevine n/b, I rarely had to touch the brakes. The two bad aspects of a B/S is that they are very heavy and also, you have to watch the oil temp as it will heat up very quickly. But thanks for all of the other great tips, including the common-sense approach to making noise needlessly. Come on, folks....use your heads!! You wonder why people get pissy when trucks make noise. Use your Jake coming off of a hill, not bobtailing through town....with straight pipes. Really?!?!

  • @landonkeller1821
    @landonkeller1821 3 года назад +6

    Love your vids. " her cuuter shakes when she hears them jakes" lol.

  • @americanrambler4972
    @americanrambler4972 3 года назад +18

    I am a huge fan of the “jake brake”! They work great for speed control and management. In all kinds of weather. Sometimes you adjust how and when you use them for traffic and road conditions, but overall they make for a better, safer operating and driving environment. I am also a fan for using them in combination with cruise control. With the modern computer controlled engines, you set your desired decent speed and let the computers adjust the settings as needed to hold speed. On the last trucks I drove, the cruise control could activate and deactivate individual cylinders. So instead of a 3 position setting jake, the cruise could choose between 6 settings. With the newer automatics, it could upshifts and down shift as needed for additional braking power adjustment to stay in the desired speed range. I enjoyed that capability and used it often. But remember, you still have to actively monitor the system, because if it shuts down or goes haywire, you speed can increase surprisingly fast. Don’t do Tesla driver autopilot stupid and become one of those drivers who didn’t pay attention and then wound up hurt or dead.

  • @mikekuhn214
    @mikekuhn214 3 года назад +5

    3 stage Jake brake. I use position 3 when I have a heavy load. Position 2 when hauling an MT trlr. And position 1 when Bobtailing

  • @travistharp4215
    @travistharp4215 2 года назад +1

    I had a co drive who always left the jakes so when ever he let off the accelerator it slowed. He never wanted to use the brakes he wanted to save them for when you where really needed. Only one time was there a issue. I was asleep in the top bunk and he almost had a wreck and the jake was on 3 in a frieghtliner and he hit the brake pedal pretty hard. Short story I was thrown into the window and had internal bleeding. I learned a lesson and so did he haha

  • @plumbingstuffinoregon2471
    @plumbingstuffinoregon2471 3 года назад +4

    It baffles me how some people choose to live right over a freeway and then complain about jake brakes and other truck noises.

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +3

      Yup, some people's kids! Don't have two brain cells to rub together!

    • @Bendigo1
      @Bendigo1 3 года назад

      Those are the same kind of people that move in next to an airport then complain about planes flying over their house.

  • @cuocsongtaixeaustralia1332
    @cuocsongtaixeaustralia1332 3 года назад +4

    Jake brake !!!! Love that sound!!!

  • @Dodge0359A
    @Dodge0359A 3 года назад +13

    From my CDL instructor... "The jake is a tool, not a toy."

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +5

      Good quote! He's right!

    • @dchawk81
      @dchawk81 3 года назад +1

      My impact wrench is a tool but I still love playing with it.

  • @brandonedge1276
    @brandonedge1276 Год назад +1

    Kind sir, I enjoy what you contribute to trucking culture and education. Keep on trucking, sir. Thank you.

  • @JasonVladimir
    @JasonVladimir 3 года назад +1

    Great show as always! Thanks for sharing!

  • @aaronhamming972
    @aaronhamming972 3 года назад +13

    The Jake in the truck I drive is a necessity, definitely comes in handy when grossing 100k lbs. If you're ever looking for ideas for videos. I'd love to see a video on "Michigan special" trucks.

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +3

      Yeah, some of those things are amazing! Thanks!

    • @aaronsanborn4291
      @aaronsanborn4291 3 года назад

      On the hardball here in Maine we get 100K. Off road 200K+ with a single truck and trailer up to half a mil running two full length log trailers

  • @rd5991
    @rd5991 3 года назад +2

    That cat sounds GOOD

  • @m118lr
    @m118lr Год назад

    WHEN..I was driving in both Texas and Montana, I was using it constantly. As you said, I wouldn’t want to be in a tractor/rig WITHOUT a ‘J’ brake. IF I were an o/operator..GUARANTEED.

  • @rockymntnliberty
    @rockymntnliberty 3 года назад +3

    I think a lot of the complaints about Jake brakes and the cause for signage saying don't use them is the Lowder more extreme Jake brake applications. Most of your newer more modern trucks aren't near as loud and noticeable. I agree safety trumps your choice to live right next to a hell on the highway.

  • @jacob2483
    @jacob2483 3 года назад +1

    Great video! I love the Jake brake sound.

  • @greglamb4356
    @greglamb4356 3 года назад +2

    Thank you for doing a segment on jakes, I've been seeing more and more drivers not using them especially in the mountains and smoking their brakes

  • @katmanclancy
    @katmanclancy 3 года назад +2

    Thank you, brilliantly explained.

  • @stephaniel.webster9090
    @stephaniel.webster9090 3 года назад +6

    Once again I learned something from you even though I have been out here for awhile. LOL. I do always appreciate your historical perspective info!

  • @jackr7028
    @jackr7028 3 года назад +3

    Lived just off the I-215 in Salt Lake City for many years, west side not east side next to the richies. Heard Jakes every day, including fire trucks, never bothered me. Now when I was going down Parleys Canyon and wouldn’t hear a Jake and smelled brakes I always got worried.

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад

      You live in a beautiful part of the country Jack!

  • @bobcorrielus4160
    @bobcorrielus4160 Год назад +2

    Thank you sir I’ve learned a lot from you over the years. You’re truly a great man 👨 I appreciate your patience and kindness to show us a bit of what you know. Thank you 🙏 thank you 🙏

  • @sd.1110
    @sd.1110 3 года назад +3

    Started driving in the mid 60"s Northern Calif. logging... then did LA / Seattle. Drove many different trucks, Like you said, some jakes worked good, others did not. Then I drove a Cat, 3406 with a "Retarder" , even a 4308 once with a low bed!! The best engine brake available!! Could drop off the Grapevine, weighing over 80,000 an never touch the brake peddle!! Later years, as soon as I got on the freeway, engine warmed up, Jake bake turned on, left it on, never turned it off tell parked at the end of the day!! Was a bit surprised when forced to drive an automatic, Hated the automatic, tell I had to run LA, coming back north, set the truck speed at 30 mph, 80.000 an never had to touch the brakes!! Piece of mind!! Safety over signs!! Always!!!! Newer trucks, don't make that wonderful sound anymore!!! lol....

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад

      Good letter or comment or whatever the correct term is. Appreciate it SD!

  • @HaulingBonez
    @HaulingBonez 3 года назад +2

    Always learn something, glad I found your channel

  • @jimcharles9844
    @jimcharles9844 3 года назад +2

    Hello Dave, I really enjoy all your videos! They are very informative. I'm a wannabe trucker. But only haul sugar beets in the fall and love every minute of it. I've been in the building trades for 34 years and love everything about heavy trucks and driving. Thank you for the content!!

  • @Hogger280
    @Hogger280 2 месяца назад +1

    The Jake opens the exhaust valve just before TDC of the compression stroke releasing the compressed air to the exhaust system leaving no energy to push the piston back down.

  • @donalddakota8069
    @donalddakota8069 3 года назад +3

    Great info on the Jake, totally agree with Evermore. Absolutely can't stand open pipe bikes, just useless junk toys. But a truck is working making our countries go and yes, a big truck on the Jake coming down the grade sounds great to us kids at heart!

  • @Evan_Horvath
    @Evan_Horvath Год назад +1

    I drive for an LTL company. My truck is a 2013 T680. My engine brake is super quiet, but it is very effective. Downshifting to slow down is actually louder than using the Jake.

  • @justinsmith2918
    @justinsmith2918 3 года назад +1

    Live the videos, just recently started watching your channel, I am starting at training academy next month so I have been trying to learn as much as I can before hand, great job, thanks

  • @roundsm18
    @roundsm18 3 года назад +7

    The term “Jake Brake” is kinda like Kleenex for facial tissue. A “Jake Brake” is a Jacobs Vehicle Systems Compression Release Engine Brake. Clessie Cummins invented it, Jacobs made it reality.
    The one other option which exists these days makes use of an exhaust brake which provides a restriction in the exhaust. They’re basically a butterfly valve installed downstream from the turbocharger.
    From a mechanic standpoint - thank God you’re here to explain this stuff to people! The day you and those like you retire I will have a much harder job.
    Fun fact the Cummins doesn’t use a Jacobs brake anymore and they haven’t for years. It’s called a C-Brake and has been at least since the N-14s, same principles of operation apply.
    Mack had that Renault engine and they called their brake a “power leash” - same operation.
    A true Jacobs brake is easy to find on old alpine green Detroits.

  • @roadroostertransport9339
    @roadroostertransport9339 3 года назад +3

    Thank you for the video. As a new trucker this was very educational and informative.

  • @sharrelson3344
    @sharrelson3344 Год назад

    Yes sir the knowledge is unreal.

  • @chainesaw
    @chainesaw Год назад

    ONE of the best videos you have made THANK'S

  • @maddawg6446
    @maddawg6446 3 года назад +2

    Hey thanks great video talking about those super truckers I seen a guy used stage 3 in the fuel island line unbelievable 🤠👍🏼

  • @elikivatuloka1016
    @elikivatuloka1016 Год назад

    The best truck expert...so educating

  • @raymondcastilleja151
    @raymondcastilleja151 3 года назад +2

    I do food service and drive a 2019 freightliner but these videos still feel very comforting and provide some great info. Keep up the good work

  • @iBackshift
    @iBackshift 3 года назад +2

    89 Ford 9000 w/425 cat, 8 spd. I come over Caver's hill outside of Nipigon w/139,000 on about 50kmh and went to split from 5 to 4th and "BWAhh.." had a "FLAME OUT", letting off the gas to shift. Glare ice underneath a layer of fluff snow. Holy shit my arse puckered up. Steering wheel locked up, pushed the clutch in, hit the starter button, found 4th gear and put the passenger tire in the snowbank and rode the tire in the snowbank down the hill about 200ft to straighten the truck out and get it down to 30kmh and complete the hill. Sometimes if the microswitch (on a mechanical engine) just aint in the right spot, on very slippery condition, the engine can stall.

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +1

      Just a fun ride you'll never forget!

    • @iBackshift
      @iBackshift 3 года назад

      @@SmartTrucking It was around 1988~89ish when I first got my AZ license, I was sitting in the Nipigon husky and listened to 2 truckers across from me talk about the snow conditions outside. One trucker said he had a "flame out" (first time i heard that term) and he run the tire into the snowbank on-purpose to descend that hill. I never forgot that story. Not 10 years later, there I am on the same hill [Hauling palladiam mud from Nipigon to Falconbridge] in the same predicament as him. That conversation came back to me "WHAM"...and that's the only knowledge i had to try to get out of that situation. Im so happy i sat with my mouth shut and listened to that Gentleman. High probability it saved me from a wreck.

  • @thomaskirkpatrick4031
    @thomaskirkpatrick4031 3 года назад +3

    There is nothing that sounds like a CAT with the Jake on 3, love it.

  • @michealbeamon6139
    @michealbeamon6139 3 года назад +1

    Excellent video on jakes! Been driving since 93 first 4 n cab over didn’t know what a jake was until 97 just knew those Pete’s on I 81 hanging those curves without hitting brakes were pros and when I grow up I’m going to be a pro too. 😂

  • @nancybenson1951
    @nancybenson1951 3 года назад +1

    Loved this explanation. Be safe.

  • @adriandennis3283
    @adriandennis3283 2 года назад

    Love the sound of the engine brake

  • @iheartcryptoverse2857
    @iheartcryptoverse2857 3 года назад +1

    Best information video I have seen this whole month. Thanks

  • @lisacrawford7059
    @lisacrawford7059 3 года назад +3

    I wished he could teach me how to drive trucks love his youtube videos great wisdom on trucking.

  • @adonaisflame4077
    @adonaisflame4077 Месяц назад

    I truly appreciate your videos. You teach me so much.

  • @TheIcyWizard705
    @TheIcyWizard705 3 года назад +3

    I very much enjoy using my jake brake, or exhaust brake (details details) but man one thing that makes me wish I had an older truck is just how quiet these new ones are. I get that a lot of people don't like how loud they are especially through towns but I just want something more than a dull hum from it even when at a higher RPM and in high engine braking. I hear those older trucks with the louder ones and I do love it

  • @RohanmkShaw
    @RohanmkShaw 3 года назад +3

    Yes u really do great video I'm a truck driver in Jamaica on I love watching videos im driving for about twenty years on I still learn a thing r two from them

  • @Theater1TV
    @Theater1TV 2 года назад

    Great video i was looking for tips on engine breaking before my cdl exam.

  • @timbober1
    @timbober1 3 года назад

    Informative as always, never heard of the brake saver.

  • @swaghauler8334
    @swaghauler8334 3 года назад +4

    Here's my "Billy Bobtail" confession...
    When I was young, in the Army, and still a member of the E4 Mafia (before they gave me those damned stripes) we had the old 5-Tons (513s or 913s?) with the manual shift and the smokecreen generator that dumped diesel fuel straight into the exhaust. The generator would produce a thick black fog-like smoke right at ground level. We would be convoying somewhere and would take turns "smoking" each other out during the drive. It was bad enough we were already burning what looked like fuel oil or maybe "ship's Bunker" (the slang for ship oil) Back then. Uncle Sam's "carbon footprint" was a size 22EEE and yes, I contributed to it!

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад

      That's a good story! Funny! Thanks!

    • @devildawgmike
      @devildawgmike 3 года назад +1

      800 series were the old manuals. 900 s were the autos

  • @nightcrawlerdang_it067
    @nightcrawlerdang_it067 3 года назад +5

    Floating gears and jaking while bobtailing still sounds good to me. Especially right beside a sign that says(no Jake brakes)🤣

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 года назад +4

      I'm getting the impression that you may be a bit of a trouble maker. Carry on!

    • @nightcrawlerdang_it067
      @nightcrawlerdang_it067 3 года назад +1

      @@SmartTrucking yes sir just a little 🤫

  • @markpoore3260
    @markpoore3260 3 года назад +1

    Great video I pull oversize-overweight I always have my jake in high

  • @cedricgates9976
    @cedricgates9976 2 года назад

    started driving in 67 never heard of a jake drew pulp and logs in the mountains of the adirondacks in ny with gas jobs untill the eighties traded my pulp truck on a dumper with a 671 and a jake ill tell you that was an eye opener!! would never drive anything without one now great invention!

  • @towman7882
    @towman7882 3 года назад +1

    Thanks for the info. I drive a C-Class Rotator Wrecker and always wounder about the positions for the jake. Keep on Truckin and be SAFE out there.
    Nashville, Tennessee

  • @stevenkietzke5582
    @stevenkietzke5582 3 года назад

    I'm a starting out driving, enjoy your tips and explanation of the industry

  • @cbradiomizfit7562
    @cbradiomizfit7562 3 года назад

    Everything this guy is saying is 100% true. I agree with his views on using the jake even during winter conditions

  • @iamlightborne5137
    @iamlightborne5137 2 года назад

    Thanks for the explanation. I'm grateful.

  • @hardwork2666
    @hardwork2666 3 года назад +1

    Thank you for your knowledge, I'm new to trucking and I listen to the experience wise man!!!
    I plan to stay alive and keep people and families safe!!!

  • @44punisherable
    @44punisherable 2 года назад

    Unfortunately people who will never be in a truck will never understand. However I think it's a good idea that young driver understand what it's like by offering them to actually drive them. Yes it'd be very expensive but life is everything

  • @jamesmoon7312
    @jamesmoon7312 3 года назад +2

    I'm a new truck owner I wish would come here and help me learn all this stuff I need to know. But your videos help alot

  • @justenwood368
    @justenwood368 2 года назад

    I live by a highway. Love the Jake sound. Shedhaul work I try to always get a truck with "aux brake" (engine, exhaust, semi-jake depending on what I get in that week).

  • @devonrempel5574
    @devonrempel5574 2 года назад +1

    I drive a logging truck in BC my grandpa started me off on his old freightliner classic with a c15 and the jake really only made noise, now I’m in a 2021 ISX15 and I rarely touch the brake pedal I love it

  • @iamlightborne5137
    @iamlightborne5137 2 года назад

    Just for showing yourself actually pressing the buttons and what they look like to a newbie and letting us listen to it I am a subscriber now, you're welcome and thank you.

  • @etcllc3519
    @etcllc3519 3 года назад +1

    Let me shed some light on all of the negative comments in regards to using the Jacob’s Brake, (Jake Brake) whilst bobtailing. These tractors were designed to accommodate heavy loads and trailers. These tractors were not generally designed for bobtailing, therefore; the rear end is extremely light and provides limited traction. As ninety percent of a tractor’s stopping power is provided through the rear drive axles, bobtails are more susceptible to sliding or skidding, especially under wet conditions. Often, when driving through rural areas, there are many traffic lights that change unexpectedly causing a driver to bear down on the brakes. U.S. 287 through TX. and CO. come to mind. Even with Anti-Lock brakes and obeying all of the speed limits, there is still a good chance that a tractor alone will skid upon a sudden braking instance.
    Another thing to remember is that the Jake Brake slows down the tractor and not the trailer. Once the Jake Brake is engaged, the tractor will slow down but the trailer’s momentum keeps pushing forward. This is the cause of many jackknife situations. While the tractor suddenly slows, the trailer pushes the tractor out of the way. Many manufacturers have incorporated a design that only engages the Jake Brake when the foot pedal is depressed. An even distribution of braking power supplied to all of the wheels while the Jake Brake is engaged greatly reduces the risk of jackknifing.
    One last note; the parameters of the Jake Brake can be set through the ECM on electronically controlled engines to an operators specific desires. These include having the engine fan come on any time the Jake is engaged, delayed engagement, lowest speed operable....etc.
    And as for the best invention on a truck in the past forty years, I’d have to say having an air ride suspension beats the Jake Brake any day!!!!!

  • @cliffp.8396
    @cliffp.8396 3 года назад

    Excellent driving advice

  • @jeepguy220
    @jeepguy220 3 года назад +1

    2017 freightliner cascadia single axle Detroit auto 12, Jake brake has alouded my rear brake shoes to still be legal with 524,000 on them. the Jake saved one of our drivers from being in a pileup on a snowy interstate. big riggers think it's a toy, it's good u made this content to show them what's it's really for! I use stage 1 in town to aid my stopping in cases where drivers turn I front of me or stop fast for oh crap there's where I want to go.