Engine Brake in Traffic

[ARD]

Well, I learned something new yesterday as I traveled I-40 in the blistering heat of Tennessee in terrible traffic. Do not use your air brakes as it will heat the tires up fast. Turn your engine brake on high. Yes, that is what Spartan told me as I panicked when my drive axle and tag tire temps creeped up to 190. Sure enough, once I turned the engine brakes on my tires started to cool. Of course, I sat on the side on the road for a little while debating whether I should let some air out of the tires. I did on one tire to no effect.

I hope this information helps someone that is not "in the know," like me. Oh, the tech also said don't confuse the above scenario with driving around town as you do need to use air brakes to deglaze the rotors.

Happy and Safe Travels.

 

[redbaron]

I have never been in that kind of traffic with the RV. I think I would start reconsidering life decisions if I was

 

[ARD]

I have never been in that kind of traffic with the RV. I think I would start reconsidering life decisions if I was

Yes, I don't recommend it.

 

[wildebill308]

One thing you should know is NEVER let air out of your tires in this situation. The tires are designed to handle it.
Bill

 

[Texas Clodhopper]

The only time I have ever turned my engine brake off is when it's raining.

 

[AbdRahim]

I have never been in that kind of traffic with the RV. I think I would start reconsidering life decisions if I was

You are fortunate. I encounter this somewhere on the interstates on almost every long trip, especially coming home. Although, I have discovered a MH friendly back road way in, for future reference.

 

[sheridany]

You haven’t experienced the thrill of excitement until your toad tire starts deflating in a LA traffic jam at 4:30 pm on the freeway and the shoulder is closed.

 

[J&JD]

The only time I have ever turned my engine brake off is when it's raining.

All I can add is your engine brake is your friend in 99% of driving. Mine is almost never off.

 

[DennisT]

Love the one in our Superstar.

Coming over the Blue Ridge on route 26 I even had to hit the suggestion pedal a couple times due to the engine brake slowing me down too much

Really like it in traffic too with people cutting in etc.

 

[Roadglide117]

I never shut my engine brake off, even in rain. Coach is heavy enough that it will not cause any slide, and I don't drive mine in the snow or freezing weather....so far