air brakes?

[Ragain]

Would like to know if anyone has installed a system to operate a trailer equipped with air brakes. OnBoardAir.com has a nice engine driven air compressor system for the Dodge/Cummins. I pull EXTREMELY heavy loads of railroad components grossing near 38,000#. I have tried all brake systems on both of my 53' goose-necks except the Kelsey-Hayes 12k axles w/ hydraulic disks, but I feel nothing could give me the confidence I could have with a set of Hendrickson 15k axles w/air binders! Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[nickleinonen]

just rig up a trailer spike on the collum to control the trailer brakes. my pop's got something similar with his trailer brakes [only they are electronic] and i can transfer it to my truck with no issues [i rarely tow so i don't want/need a full time trailer brake]



as far as i know, there is no law controling how a trailers brakes are applied, as long as they are there and working. .

 

[C. Harlan]

Maybe it's time to step up to a larger truck/trailer combo... By that I mean one that is suitable for the weight ratings which you can safely run at... I read a thread a while back about a guy who was overloaded, had a blowout, and killed 2 people when he lost control during the blowout, killing 2 people or something like that. He was getting sued for several million, and his insurance left him high and dry, because they said he was overloaded... You may want to look into that as well. . Don't mean to rain on your parade. . Just thought I would add my 2 cents worth...



-Chris-

 

[Ragain]

Mr. nickleinonen... . yeah the column mounted trailer brake lever is a good & simple remedy, but a 6 speed w/underdrive splitter & jakes keeps me busy enough! I was hoping for a way to have a brake petal actuated set-up for panic stops. Mr. C. Harlan... . Very true! Safety is my #1 concern and have plenty of axles on the ground to handle the weight. Stopping has been an issue though, if there is a way to do this "hydraulic over air" install without compromising safety... . I think the set up could greatly reduce a liability "situation". I also have a 359 Pete w/ a Ravens flat for the heavier loads. I'll keep watching to see what other ideas develope..... Thanks for your input!

 

[ToolManTimTaylor]

I agree with Chris on this one. 38 large is fine for theese rigs. BUT the need for you is there to step up one notch. Me I would grab a truck mentioned below. They can be found NEW cab&Chassis for 34,000. Or outfitted used for 40K.





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[CCBrady]

Ragain, I too think it is time for you to get a bigger truck, any time the load is bigger that than the truck, it's time to up grade.

As for air brakes on trailers. First, I'd like to know where under our hoods they think that air compressor is going to fit. Second, there are all kinds of laws and codes that cover the air systems used on commercial trucks and trailers. Working for a Freightliner dealer, and getting a degree in Diesel Power Tech. , I can tell you that you don't want to shade tree an air brake system.