Air Brakes Explained Simply :: Service, Parking and Emergency Brakes One & the Same

The brakes on your car are the same as air brakes, only the power source is different - watch the video. CDL IN-CAB Air Brake CHECKLIST: www.smartdrivetest.com/cdl-ai... SUBSCRIBE TODAY! ► / smartdrivetest
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On a hydraulic braking system that is fitted to most passenger vehicle, there are three brake types:
1) service brakes (brake pedal)
2) parking brakes
3) emergency brakes.
All braking systems are divided into two independent sub-systems, therefore it is rare that service brakes fail.
When you're going up and down the road, you apply the foot pedal and the vehicle comes to a nice gentle stop. Or if you find yourself in an emergency situation, you have the brake pedal and the vehicle comes to a screeching halt.
Although 85% of vehicles in North America are fitted with automatic transmissions and 90% of those drivers don't use the parking brake, all vehicles have parking brakes. And drivers should use the parking brake to prevent undue wear on their transmission when the vehicle is left parked.
And in the event that the brakes fail going up and down the road and the brake pedal doesn't work, the driver can apply the parking brake. When the brakes fail and the driver uses the parking brake to bring the vehicle to a stop, the parking brake is now an emergency brake, because--oddly enough--it is now an emergency situation.
Ai brakes have the same three types of brakes:
1) service brakes (brake pedal)
2) parking brakes
3) emergency brakes.
What has confused students since air brake courses were implement in the 1970s is that instructors refer to service brakes as air brakes and spring brakes as parking and emergency brakes. There has not been a clear terminology, and this lack of clarity has served to confuse air brake students.
So, the three brake types are the same. What is different is that power source that applies the brakes.
On a hydraulic system, hydraulic pressure applies the service brakes. The parking/emergency brakes are applied with a cable and lever. The energy to move the lever comes from the driver.
The only difference between the brakes on a hydraulic system and those on an air brake system is the power source and that the emergency brakes on your car are applied manually - on an air brake system, the emergency brakes apply automatically.
On an air brake system, the driver pushes the brake pedal and applies the service brakes going up and down the road. When the driver parks the vehicle, she/he pulls the parking control valve on the dash and exhausts the air from the spring brake chamber. Exhausting the air pressure allows the large, powerful springs to expand which applies the parking brakes.
While the vehicle is going up and down the road, the large powerful springs are held in the released position by air pressure. If the air pressure is lost, the large powerful spring will expand and begin to automatically apply the emergency brakes.
Both hydraulic and air brake systems are the same. Both have parking brakes where the parking/emergency brakes are one and the same. The only difference is that the emergency brakes on your car are applied manually and on an air brake system these apply automatically.
What has confused students is referring to parking/emergency brakes as spring brakes.
Good luck on your road test!
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[@user-ww9pb1wb5e]

yeah man totally. THIS IS SO MUCH EASIER TO UNDERSTAND. Thank you !!

[@smartdrivetest]

Happy to hear we can help out my friend. Drop us a note if you have further questions. Cheers Rick

[@ChrisJohannsen]

I took a 16 hour air brake course last weekend and barely learned anything, had trouble staying awake as the teacher spoke. But after watching your videos all day I took the air brakes knowledge test and passed with ease (22 out of 25). Best CDL videos on the web. Now to watch your pre-trip/driving test videos. :) Thanks a lot for being one of the few clear, concise youtubers on this subject.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Chris- thank you for your comment and compliment. Congratulations on passing your test and moving forward. And thank you for letting us know. Which class of licence are you working toward and where are you in the world. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@edwinace4421]

😂😂😂

[@electricamir248]

If you start falling asleep, time to take an air break.

[@SCARECROW3999]

Was hoping to see a few pics of the actual braking system, a pic showing the s cam, a pic showing the spring being held back and what it does when I press the pedal, anything... Some ppl are visual learners

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi SCARECROW3999 - Thank you for your comment. This is going to be a better video for you my friend: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mn7bmp-Xqbljp9k If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@ahraitch6218]

I think you over-complicated the issue. Consider starting with the fact that brakes apply a friction force on the wheels. There are 2 kinds that are mutually exclusive for an individual wheel: disk brakes or drum brakes. A force is needed to actuate the disk or drum. In most cars and light trucks, the force is exerted by hydraulic pressure. On larger trucks, buses, RVs et alia, the force is exerted by compressed air and are called air brakes. Air brakes have a fail-safe mechanism that holds pressure to compress large springs until stored air pressure falls below a certain level. When that happens the force compressing those large springs drops and the springs expand exertings pressure on the brakes thus bringing the vehicle to a stop, eventually. Parking brakes and their use as emergency brakes apply to cars and light trucks. Instead of hydraulic pressure, muscle power is used to put pressure on the brakes to cause the slowing friction. A diagram or 2 would make this a lot easier and save you a lot of breath.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi RH Hutchins - Thank you for your comment. The point of the video was to compare car brakes to air brakes. Service, parking and emergency brakes. It was a starting point to illustrate that the brakes on an air brake vehicle are the same as on the car - just the power source is different. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@noahnana26]

Thank for that explanation of the springs brakes. I was able to see what he was trying to explain.

[@girlcode]

Absolutely I believed spring brakes were different This is by Far THE most simplified explanation ever You are GOD sent Thank you!!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi GIRLCODE Daughter of TMH - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome my friend. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@girlcode]

Smart Drive Test Thank You Rick I'm taking my CDL permit now Class B I am going to be driving a public bus for my City and I've received all endorsement except the Air Brakes I failed 3 times feeling a bit defeated and lost so thank you for the encouragement I know I'll PASS this test With People like you who don't personally know "US" but care enough to help heard you say it means a lot to you it means a lot to us as Well that someone understands they are using "trickery" because after a while you begin to question your sanity THX for responding & most importantly THX for being you!! 😊

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi GIRLCODE Daughter of TMH - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment. How is the studying going my friend. Maybe this test will help: www.smartdrivetest.com/air-brakes-explained-simply If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@girlcode]

Smart Drive Test My goodness I'm happy to report I Passed!!!! With only one incorrect answer because of Over confidence can you believe it? I rushed on one of those tricky questions but Thank You so much I passed last Wednesday and I'll never forget just how much you have assisted.

[@gurdeepflora9332]

Houses. For. Sale. In. Slough@@smartdrivetest ,

[@rileymccartHy100]

Okay so for those who don’t know, the term ‘spring brakes’ was coined when the brakes on air brake systems started using springs. Before they were around, the trailers would hold air in the tanks, and relied on air pressure(just like if you had your foot on the brake pedal) to hold the brakes. The problem with this is, when the air eventually leaks out of the trailer air tanks, the brakes slowly release, leaving only the landing gear to hold the trailer still. Spring brakes came out, and now the brakes will always stay on, even with empty tanks on the trailer. That’s what I was taught in trucking school.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Riley Mccarthy - Thank you for your comment. The term "spring brake" is confusing and should be jettisoned from the curriculum. It should simply be referred to as the parking/emergency brake because that's what it does. The function is the same on a large vehicle fitted with air brakes as on your passenger vehicle fitted with hydraulic brakes. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@rileymccartHy100]

Smart Drive Test , I agree. To this day I’ve never seen a trailer without spring brakes. Or a truck for that matter. The term has become obsolete. Hey keep up the good work btw. Your videos are great, and very easy to comprehend.👍

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Riley Mccarthy - Thank you for your response my friend. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@rixxroxxk1620]

@@rileymccartHy100 as an ex DOT officer, I’ve only seen one trailer without spring brakes- a 1948 Fruehauf flatbed that was owned by Congoleum. Mechanically, there was nothing wrong with it. You just have to chock the wheels when parking it in case of air loss.

[@santim441]

I live in Canada and from what I know , Buses have Service Brakes only. The emergency Brakes are beside the seat and are pulled by cable or hydraulic fluid in a separately mechanism. Semi (Tractors and trailers) have Spring Brakes as Emergency Brakes included as a one unit linked to the Service. ✌🏼

[@mikrotech6285]

Hi Dr. August, it is unbelievable how you cleared my confusion in under 5 minutes, even after spending more than 20 hrs in class, I was still confused thinking spring breaks were totally different, My Instructor explained the mechanism of how spring breaks work, but because I already had the notion it was a different system, I was still confused until after watching this video. Thank you, thank you!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Mikro Tech - you are most welcome my friend. If we can help further, drop us a note. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@alaarumman5775]

Thanks man you realy awesome and I passed my class 4 and 5 after I watched you and now I'm applying for Class 1

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi alaa rumman - that is *_BRILLIANTLY PEACHY_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate? See this vid too my friend: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGLLc31qbtiLY9U

[@alvaradojessecbr]

Spring breaks confused me too at 1st. I thought these Spring brakes were only available in Cancun Mexico, once a year in April.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Jesse Alva - Thank you for your great comment. And unfortunately, that old technology has hung around. Nope, the springs are work the entire time the truck is stopped. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@ChivalrousVeteran]

Ladies and Gentleman; we have a comedian here, your humor is very very clever and very witty - I always enjoy a well thought out humorous joke! Actually took me a moment to catch on; then I had a genuine laugh! Congrats; very well worded, I enjoyed the humorous laughter once I caught on to it, Thank You! : - )

[@TimCBuilders]

friggin hilarious, I just LOLed

[@grizzle273463]

dang you, you stole my stupid joke. so you get the thumbs up.

[@adanatesfaye6414]

😂😂😂😂

[@jake2863]

I was confused and thought there were two completely different braking systems. Now it makes sense. Thank you!!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi sean m - Thank you for your comment. And we're happy to hear we could clear up the misundersanding. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@pohlrc]

The best line was that parking brakes & emergency brakes are one in the same. The name changes when the situation changes!!! (You put on parking brake voluntarily or the spring brakes come on in an emergency & are therefore called emergency brakes) Very helpful!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Rachel Pohl - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@abbyfletcher3948]

I was also very confused because I thought springs breaks were a separate system. Thank you for this clarification!!!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Abby Fletcher - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@askingnothing]

Man, that helped me out so much. You made it really easy to understand. Going for my permit in a couple days and was stressing out over this, but now I think I'll pass for sure. Thanks

[@smartdrivetest]

Happy to hear we could help. Drop us a note if you have further questions. Good luck on your permit. All the very best, Cheers Rick

[@ryanpillard2095]

You’re 100% right about the spring breaks throwing students off. Im not a mechanic type guy and doing my CDL studying I was confused with spring breaks. You cleared it up perfectly. Thanks

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Ryan Pillard - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@GUGAkch1]

I did my Class 1 licence few years ago in Canada. & I believed Air Brakes are easy to understand.. Until an exchange of it to CDL in USA.. I am doing exams on my phone & there were a lot of questions about spring brakes & most of that I did wrong.. Cause I was answering like “No, not spring brakes,-Air brakes!” Haha but it was telling I was wrong.. I couldn’t understand what are they talking about. & started to think that maybe all the time there was another brake in my truck I didn’t know.. hahah I was trying to find info in Google but I didn’t. But You helped me to understand it so easily! THANK YOU. Same in car.. parking break & emergency brake.. Man.. You are so awesome! Thank You. I am originally from Poland & understood everything from the first time cause a you explain so nicely. Thank You again & best for You!

[@smartdrivetest]

Happy to hear we could help out my friend. Drop us a note if you have further questions. All the very best, Cheers Rick

[@jasonleming2541]

General Motors Master Technician here. On light duty drop the term emergency brake, it's called a parking brake and is not designed to stop a vehicle at all. This is a huge misconception in the automotive field. Look at any manual and it is called the parking brake. the symbol on the dash shows Park or Brake when the parking brake is applied. Also in same said manual it tells you the not to use the parking brake to stop the vehicle. Most people no longer read the manual. Love these videos! Keep up the great work!!

[@deannawarren1398]

46 year old woman trying something new. I have not ever driven a standard car and was completely in the dark. Thanks buddy! I was thinking for a brief second I had made one hell of a mistake taking this course. All clear...or atleast a lot more clear***

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi deanna warren - Thank you for your comment. And you inspire myself and others!! Keep going, you're doing awesome. And we're happy to hear that the information helped out. No, you didn't make a mistake. Saying that, it is going to be work because learning requires that. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@georgewehrheim1829]

Air brakes are on all the time except when the air pressure compresses the brake diagram which compresses the brake springs that way if there is a loss of air the brakes apply

[@rr1835]

Thank you for your clear and concise explanation of spring brakes, why they're called such and how they work! You have produced an eye-opening video that should be seen by all drivers, especially those planning to drive commercial vehicles or class A RVs. You have taken the great mystery out of the various study guides, manuals and tests I have been using and made the information easy to understand. Again, thank you so much! I have enjoyed watching all of your videos that I have come across so far.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi RR1 - Thank you for your comment and great endorsement. We're happy to hear that we could help out. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@jaskumar9246]

Great video, very informative.. I was also very confused about the whole air break and spring break system and this video really simplified things. Looking to write my cdl class 1 knowledge test next week here in British Columbia. I have learned more watching your videos than reading the studying guide. Thank you so much!!

[@Travellerherethere]

So glad I stumbled on your simply explained videos related to various systems on semi trucks. I'm studying for my CDL learner's permit and your air brakes breakdown really cleared up some confusion created by multiple resources designed to help me through the learning process. Thank goodness, your approach got my head straight. Very well explained. Thank you!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Travellerherethere - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@MrFromchicago2ny]

OMG I’m taking my CDL Permit in Chicago Illinois tomorrow 9/14/18 this was simplified to capacity. I definitely was lost on this course thanks so much

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Jasmine Giles - Thank you for your comment. You're going to do awesome. Remember to breath; that will cause your body to relax. Good luck on your road CDL test! Be sure to let us know how it goes. All the best, Cheers Rick PS - so glad that we clear up the confusion.

[@brianlove-el6096]

Checking on from GA this made so much sense. I passed my air breaks and combinations today thank you. The spring break break down made it easy to understand.I suggest this channel.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Brian Love-El - that is *_TERRIFIC_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate? See this vid too my friend: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGLLc31qbtiLY9U

[@christophertate2099]

Yeah I wish I would have watched this before I only got 19 out of 25 right

[@angelamurphy1806]

Spring breaks 100% confused me, thank you for your clear explanation.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Angela Murphy - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@timothynelson8330]

Thankful to find someone who cleared up my confusion! I failed first attempt at test because of my confusion over these matters. You got my a job!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Timothy Nelson - We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@christinadaniel7563]

Thank you so much for breaking this down. Yes I thought the spring brakes were completely separate. You've helped me tremendously!!!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Christina Daniel - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@jeffj8981]

re: spring brakes are less confusing to me than referring to parking brake and emergency brake as two separate brake systems. they are one in the same, just named for the event in which you'd use them. just my opinion

[@smartdrivetest]

Perhaps I didn't explain it well. Springs are a power source, NOT a purpose for the brakes applying. Service brake are the brake pedal. When you push the brake pedal going up and down the road, the system uses air pressure to apply the brakes. When you park the vehicle and exhaust the air out of the system, large powerful springs apply the parking brakes. If there is a catastrophic air loss in the system, the same powerful springs apply the brakes automatically. 3, 2, 1 - 3 reasons that the brakes apply (service, parking, emergency); 2 power sources (air & springs), 1 brake. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@jeffj8981]

@@smartdrivetest thanks for the clarification. that is the best explanation i've heard describing the 3 uses of air brake systems.

[@smartdrivetest]

You’re welcome my friend. Cheers Rick

[@franciscomesquita7278]

I am no longer confused between hydrolytic and air brakes systems. Thank You!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Francisco Mesquita - you are most welcome my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@ronlangley609]

Thank you for explaining this and simplifying it for new drivers. Have to admit, I once searched for spring brakes and whether or not they have to be applied by the driver. This video will, er...SHOULD clear up any confusion a new driver may have. Thank you again and keep up the good videos!

[@freshwatercowboy403]

Rick I appreciate your videos. always helpful. I'm doing my class 3. I understand how the brakes work I think using photos with explanations would help un confuse people

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Gary Rudick - thank you for your comment and feedback - that really helps. Yes, the manual will have lots of photos, explanations, animated gifs, and links to videos. If there's anything further we can do drop us a note, always happy to help. Cheers Rick

[@freshwatercowboy403]

do you have a specific Alberta pre trip inspection list? I am having a hard time remembering things like suspension springs, tie rod, brake alignment, brake chambers, brake drums, slack adjustors etc. rmthats part of the front it's this and the back of the truck that gets me. I'm doing my class

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Gary Rudick - let me look around and see if I have one for you. I should be able to get something for your by tomorrow. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Gary - here's the form. Have a quick look to make sure everything is the same as Alberta - there migh be some minor differences. All the best, Cheers Rick www.smartdrivetest.com/alberta-class-3-pre-trip-inspection

[@johnw8685]

Yes I was confused. But after watching this video. It makes alot of sence. Thanks. Great video again.From Ontario

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Wajid Majeed - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. Happy to hear we could clear up the confusion there in Ontario. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@whiskfern]

For the person who knows very little about vehicle brakes of any kind, but wants to learn, diagrams and/or videos of the braking systems would be INVALUABLE. I still learned a lot from this, though.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi whiskfern - glad to help my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@bilalaahmad911]

Hi sir, I m Bilal from pakistan. Now a days I m learning how to Drive tractor trailer. I already have (LTV Licence) since 2007. Now I m going to upgrade my driving licence LTV to CDL HTV, My final test after 13 November 2019. I learned so much about seafty and vahichal systems. Thank you very much sir. God bless you. Sir You are doing great job.

[@jbmdlalose4171]

Thanks for the demystifying this issue. You're right, I thought of spring breaks as a separate system in the truck ...

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi JB MDLALOSE - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@skher]

Yes, me too. I thought there were two, not two power sources. Thank you

[@steveodonald9503]

I've been driving heavy vehicles (mostly bus and coach) for about 11 years, and yes..... I was most certainly confused if the park brake was the same brake (say, pad/drum) as the service brake. I lost air one day, and the mechanic who came to fix it could not explain it to me. I was also under the impression at the time (very mistakenly) that ALL the brakes (on all wheels) were spring loaded!!!! (ie, no air = all brakes on... Not so!!!) Have done my research since then and now understand only the rears are a very well thought out bit of engineering that serves a combination park and service brake. Main point, you made it quite clear that the maxi/spring brake does indeed activate the same brake disc/drum as the service brake.... Would have saved me a lot of confusion some 6 years ago!!!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Steve O'Donald - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. Unfortunately there is a lot of assumed knowledge on the part of instructors that teach these air brake course, which servers to confound students. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@robincolson9574]

This is SO well done. I am not a driver, I'm an instructional designer trying to write the training on the air braking system for CDL students and I was struggling with exactly the issue you described. The resources I have make it sound like there are three sets of brakes on each wheel, instead on only one set that is deployed at different times, in different ways, through different power sources. Why is that so hard? Thank You!!!

[@kohdetimetraveler]

I think the fact is that no one has ever Thought about these things till they go and get the License and for the amount of volume youre taking in of information is overwhelming and youre not taking it all in as you need a break to take it all in and process it all to then come back to it and fill in the blanks... there are some things that are simplified with this Video which is GREAT. As myself am Attending a Course But I'm in CANADA. which for us this is just Z license for Air Brakes as there is other names for our class of vehicle weights .

[@smartdrivetest]

How goes your training there in Ontario? Happy to hear we can help out. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@yournotdatguypal]

Thank you this really helped me out.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Anthony Baez - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@michaelperry4477]

need advice: I've driven straight trucks for 13 years and yesterday my air brakes failed. I came to stop and heard a thump noice, didnt think much of it due to me having a heavy load. Soon after going down a hill on a two lane road with a sharp curve at the bottom, couldnt hardly slow the truck down, took all I could to slow it down and I took both lanes as a precaution. brakes felt weak but heavy load didn't think too much of it. Got to my first delivery, with gentle slope, pulled the knob to set the brakes as I've done thousands of times, start to get out of the truck only to find the truck was still rolling. with help of the customer, eventually got the truck moved to a nearby safe spot backed up to a curb and used blocks as well to hold the truck in place. Ryder came and looked at it and said the pads were too far worn, and the thump I heard was "rolller" coming falling out. I was fortunate I didnt wreck the truck. The trucks are serviced every 20,000 miles. As a driver during my pretrip, what could I have done diffrently to prevent this? I saw nothing loose on my brakes during pretrip, saw pad on the brakes. and the truck had just been loaded with product with only the brakes holding, no wheel blocks, no indication of anything wrong.

[@msa3595]

Now I know, and yes I was confused on the whole "spring brake" system. Thank the gods for people like you.

[@impossiblethings7609]

oh yes, this is why i haven't tested yet! Thank you, now I feel a lot better. You rock

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Impossible Things - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@sleightlytalented9998]

Rick - I was confused and this really did help. I do think the explanation starting at 8:00 up to 8:35 was the key to the whole thing for me. The light went on at that point if that helps? :)

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Bobby Evans - thank you for your comment - it is extremely valuable in finishing up the Air Brake manual we're currently working on. If there's anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@carloslizarraga5]

yeah we get confuse because we dont read all the book yet or never read the book

[@danielGee03]

Dude you helped me pass my class C dmv test from permit to drive test now you’ve helped me passed my Cdl class A permit test and are now about to help me pass my Class A drive test . THANK YOU SIR !

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Danny Garcia - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. All the best for the Class A drive test, Cheers Rick

[@jobanyparedes7471]

With this video I understand the air brake system and passed my CDL WRITTEN TEST. THANK YOU SO MUCH.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Jobany Paredes - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@ruthochoaoviedo2443]

Finally someone was able to simplify my confusion!!!!!

[@raymondsmith4541]

Wow Rick! that was so Simplified. Now I get it!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Raymond Smith - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@ararespeciesauthenticity5281]

100 % - I was confused for the longest time when I first started this journey to get my permit. Your video(s) is so helpful, you nailed it! I just got my learners permit, our instructor recommends your videos. Spring brakes (and air pressure)are incredible devices for stopping such a large moving object

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Ararespecies Authenticity - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@fibbymcgee209]

Hi Rick, I go write my air brakes test tomorrow for the 5th time! I have been studying for 2 months, even took a course! Very frustrating but not giving up. Been watching your videos for 2 months now and they are very informative, thank you!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi fibby mcgee - We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@ike7539]

did you pass finally?

[@omarboumuhammadalhamdoulil4410]

Hydraulic and Pneumatic brake systems are almost the same process, the only difference is in hydraulic we use fluid, they are cylinders .....and .Pneumatic we use only air. But both are now combined in some heavy vehicle like Buses, ultra

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Omar bou Muhammad Alhamdoulilah - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your query. On older systems they were combined, but these have fallen out of favour for the air brake system. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@royreynolds108]

I know I am writing this on Sept. 26, 2019 but I would like to suggest using a model or diagram of the parts to show what you are explaining. You could even use parts off a vehicle which would be considered a model. I would thoroughly like to explain the air brake system of a train to you as I believe I could do it less confusing as these brake systems are. Very simply on a train no air no brakes. Once charged the reduction of air pressure in the train line the brakes come on and in case of a separation the emergency is full pressure to the pistons until air pressure bleeds off then no brakes unless hand brakes are applied.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Roy Reynolds - Thank you for your feedback. Yes, this video needs to be re-done. However, this video I suspect is the one you're looking for my friend: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mn7bmp-Xqbljp9k If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@omarboumuhammadalhamdoulil4410]

Brake chamber fitted at front for service brake. Spring Brake Actuator fitted at rear for service brake and hand brake.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Omar bou Muhammad Alhamdoulilah - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your question. Yes, there are just parking/emergency brakes on the rear of the vehicle. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@xvegasxboyx5998]

I just started my 2nd week at truck driving school, and omg was I confused. This helped clear things up.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi X VEGASXBOYX - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@glendajohnson2047]

yes , that's me , didn't understand air brakes and spring brakes.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Glenda Johnson - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@RomanEmpire16]

This video was confusing as hell please break it down one by one in different videos let's talk about air brakes on a semi only

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Roman Empire 16 - Thank you for your feedback. This video will help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mn7bmp-Xqbljp9k All the best, Cheers Rick

[@manuelakahlfuss4602]

Omg I've been in class for 8 hours and didn't understand crap. A few minutes with you and I get it. Thanks

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Manuela Kahlfuss - We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@saratavassoli8816]

Hi! I'm an ESL teacher teaching trucking to students with low English levels! Thanks so much for these wonderful videos!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Sara Tavassoli - you are most welcome my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@tarawebb9237]

I thought it was a different braking system 🤦

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Tara Webb - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@paulyanez5198]

That’s why I am here. Those damn spring breaks

[@buzzmorley6333]

Great example of how looking at a subject several ways brings clarity.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Buzz Morley - We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@stephanieunderwood328]

I haven't taken a course yet, but studying in advance for my cdl course. I was really confused about the air brake system and you cleared it up in 10 minutes! Thank you for taking the time to make this video.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Stephanie Underwood - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@erwinbrubacker7488]

You are smart to prestudy before taking coarse. Be safe.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Erwin Brubacker - Thank you for your comment and encouragement. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@fahimhuq2768]

Thank you for cutting through all the circular talk of the manuals

[@robertbaldwin5230]

The Freightliner driver's manual (Business Class M2) for my RV has this notice in the brake system: "Do not use the spring parking brakes if the service brakes are hot, such as after descending a steep grade. To do so could damage the brakes. Allow hot brakes to cool before using the spring parking brakes." This made little sense to me, as I assumed they were different brakes. Now I understand that they are the same brakes. Thank you.

[@mikeshaheen210]

I would recommend that instead of using the term power sources to describe the two different ways of applying the same foundational brake parts use the the term "application method" air being the primary application method when the vehicle is in service on the road and parking spring application method is the primary method while the vehicle is stationary. I think this would be easier to understand bc here in north America the masses think of power sources as fuel or electricity etc. this is only a suggestion by the way and congratulations on recognizing the terminology language barrier that has caused so much confusion

[@jasonh7402]

Thank you! Currently testing for my CDL permit to drive a bus. Passed the general knowledge but had trouble with the air brakes. This video has definitely helped me become more knowledgeable of the air brake system.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi @jasonh7402 - We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@tobydulanski3000]

The Manual in NYS is made to confuse you rather than teach. The questions on the written test are there to confuse people as well. As you say Rick "CHOOSE THE BEST ANSWER", " NOT NECESSARILY THE CORRECT ANSWER". I have taken this test before, failed the first time, and the second the same day passed for CDL Class B with Air Brakes and S&P Endorsements November 2014. Unfortunately by the time someone called me for the job, April 2015, I was employed making more money than was being offered. Now with another life change I am continuing a career in the CDL field. Thank you for teaching others and making your videos and study PDF's as this time CDL Class A with Air Brakes and S&P Endorsements are being pursued.

[@DavidJohnson-tc8xe]

much clearer than the CDL handbook.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi David Johnson - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@bdr4212]

I saw a chamber disassembled once. That explained a lot to me.

[@smartdrivetest]

Dis-assembled - you mean someone took it apart, or it exploded? All the best, Cheers Rick

[@cdmoyle]

I was a heavy Vehicle Diesel Mechanic in "Australia", some 25 years ago, and I too was confused about Air Brake systems (didn't have a lot to do with them)., I always thought that when the brake pedal was actuated it released air from the system and the spring applied the brakes (I was wrong) as I can now understand from your video. having gone through trade school some time ago, your video helped me understand the basics and cleared my confusion. Well Done and Thanks, GOOD video... :-)

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Colin Moyle - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@cliffwaddy6733]

Thank you for explaining the spring brake. I was confused but you simplified it, and now I have a better understanding of how a spring brake operates. I recently became an owner of an older bus that is being equipped with spring brakes. I was totally confused, but I got it now. Many thanks!

[@husniabumelhim7531]

Spot on. I was indeed confused in thinking spring brakes were a separate apparatus

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Husni Abumelhim - We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@andrewmendoza6481]

I was confused as well until I watched your video! Thanks so much for the simplicity and taking time to make this for us. You da man

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Andrew Mendoza - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@ImParzelli]

I was about to go into cmv training thinking the spring brakes were like this totally different brake component, & I spent most of my life working on my fathers trucks. Your the only one on KZbin that confirmed what I already thought I knew. Just to put in perspective how on point you were lol My father only has dump trucks so that's why I'm going for the proper training. I never understood the Airbrakes like a driver should so thankyou.

[@jeffkustes8563]

Thanks man. I bought a large Winnebago recently and it's the first time I have had to rely on air brakes. I've only driven it one time and I was scared shitless because I wasn't sure how air brakes works. Great video. Thanks.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Jeff Kustes - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@conexionmax4051]

tomorrow is my written test for cdl so, i was right in 54 in a 80 quiz because brakes is a mix up in 160academy, but youre so clear and sure explain it in just 9 m inutes! thanks a lot!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi conexion max - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Good luck on your written test for CDL. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@lisas1368]

Oh my gosh! I have failed my Air Brake test twice and I hate to admit that, but each time it brought up a confusing question as to spring brakes and it even was in General Knowledge! Thank you!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Lisa S - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. Remember my friend: failure is not final. And think of all the information that you've learned that are stepping stones to passing the air brake course. You can do it my friend. Ask away if you have any question - always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@jamesadams8422]

I think what you need to say is that the springs are there for a back up source of power so if you have no air left in your system the spring are applied stopping the vehicle . Like a safety mechanism

[@cindyrodriquez5226]

Omg, I have been so confused about the whole air brake system. Taken air brake test 4 times and still haven't passed because of the confusing language of air brakes. Thank you so much for putting it in English! Trying to get cdl b for school bus and you are on your own trying to figure this out on your own so again THANK YOU!!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Cindy Rodriquez - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@janetmackenzie5422]

I've just taken the Air Brake course and was confused about the concept of the Spring Brake being separate.Thank you very much, it has "simplified" the system for me!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Janet Mackenzie - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@benholt3558]

You are doing an ace job here. If you were to hold a brake chamber to demonstrate would perhaps help even more.

[@truckercamionero846]

Finally I got the right answer about spring break, I'm about to go and take my air brakes test right now. Thanks a lot and many blessings to you.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Freddy Rozon - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@glenhenderson8059]

Yes, you've cleared up alot of things for me in your training videos. I was unsure about the different brakes but now you've made it crystal clear. I will be watching all of your videos. Thanks

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Glen Henderson - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@plaibach]

I suggest describing the (typical, modern) brake system as follows: 1. In an uncharged (no air pressure) system the brakes rest fully applied by virtue and application of heavy duty springs. 2. In a charged and ready system (working air pressure) a diaphragm and actuator mechanism counteracts and overcomes he springs, releasing the brakes for operation. 3. When they service brake (brake pedal) is applied, another diaphragm and actuator work to tip the balance once again, and move the brakes again to the applied position.

[@brendan9822]

Thanks for the help. This gave me the basic foundation to understand the test questions. I went into the DMV and passed the air brakes test right after :)

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Brenda N - Thank you for your comment. Congratulations on passing your air brake test. What CDL license are you working toward my friend? If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@roberts.2413]

Taking a CDL course, this definitely is the first explanation that makes sense for me . Well done sir .

[@southfloridamicrotrucks9767]

thank you i am new to cdl machines. but mechanically advanced. i just wasnt sure how the air brakes worked. now i will forever know. thank you.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi south florida micro trucks - you are most welcome my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@tarapalmer8055]

I'm in the process of TRYING to get my tractor trailer CDL permit so I can go to training and I have to admit, I thought spring and air were two separate systems! Thank you for your help! I think I'll need to watch all your videos in order to pass!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi @tarapalmer8055 - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@markcasarez447]

Omg THANK YOU. I'm studying for my CDL and I'm learning about the airline system and coupling. The spring brake thing totally threw me off. I appreciate this video so much

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Mark Casarez - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@haythemlutfi]

Yes, you're right about the confusion instructors cause, explaining spring breaks, service, parking and emergency breaks... Thank you for making it clear in less than 10 minutes.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Haythem Lutfi - you are most welcome my friend. See these vids too: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mn7bmp-Xqbljp9k Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@TruckerDawntheBreeze]

I just started school in PA and am so glad you helped me know the brake difference 😁

[@DuchessofCigarillo1]

I could hug you right now. I was about to throw in the towel and walk away. From our State CDL Manual it gives the impression that there are three different braking systems. The language used is also confusing and if you are a foreigner it makes it 100 times more difficult not understanding the syntax. I believe I have a clearer understanding of the air brake system now and feel confident I will pass the written air brake part of the CDL. Thank you! you are definitely (as GirlCode says) a GOD Send.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Chellè McLaughlin - A hug would be awesome! And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@DuchessofCigarillo1]

I failed the air brakes section of my test 😢 back to your videos on Monday. I have a week to redeem myself.

[@heatheyoung2045]

Yes you are right....I was reading the DMV manual fully unaware of anything to do with a commercial vehicle...i was crying in frustration when i kept failing it.....

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi heathe young - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. Are you beginning to understand? Have a look at this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mn7bmp-Xqbljp9k If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@rachelbenson2762]

Thank you so much for your videos, they have truly taught me what I needed to know after leaving my spring brake course feeling uneducated and incapable of what I was now “qualified” to do. I really wish I had watched your videos first before I went into the course then maybe I would have know what he was talking about....

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Rachel Benson - you are most welcome my friend. Happy to hear we could help out. See this video too: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mn7bmp-Xqbljp9k Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@blakesutton4287]

He apparently REALLY wanted me to leave a comment. So...Yes that helped me greatly. I was confused about spring brakes/air brakes. But no longer! Thanks!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Blake Sutton - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@darklight4815]

Yes! I am a total noob ,I don't have my permit yet,and the spring brakes had me confused until you clarified that

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi DarkLight - We're happy to hear we could help out. And we're happy to hear that you're being part of the smart driver community is making you a safer, smarter driver. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@darklight4815]

@@smartdrivetest 😃thanks so much

[@theresavanallen8077]

Yes! I was confused about spring brakes, thought they were something different. Thank you for clarification! Maybe now I will finally pass the DMV test on air brakes, after 3 fails.

[@dhplatten]

You are 100% on the mark! I completely thought there were two braking systems and couldn’t figure out where they are!

[@scottroberts3861]

Your the best at explaining air brakes and now I totally understand how they work because of your way of explaining and knowledge. You got 5 stars from me. 😃⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Scott Roberts - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@darrylcreay7245]

Thanks for clarifying this. Im on a CDL clasS now and my brain fells like its gonna pop with so much info. Keep up the good work.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Darryl Creay - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@jeffborough4762]

Thank you. This was exactly what I needed. I needed someone to explain the system to me, Not tell me how to study for the test.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Jeff Borough - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@joanneakapinklunaladyborro5122]

oh my goodness...this makes so much more sense now. I have my class 2 S school bus in Alberta and took an air brakes course to drive an air brakes bus. but because this course was geared toward the class 1 trucks. the class made no sense to me as i have never been in a Big truck...So thank you!! i am taking my written test tomorrow. and now the manual makes more sense and hopefully i should pass on the first test now!!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Joanne AKA PinkLunaLady Borrowman - You're going to do awesome. Good luck on your test! Be sure to let us know how it goes. All the best, Cheers Rick PS - see this post BEFORE you head to the test centre: www.smartdrivetest.com/pass-drivers-test/pre-trip-inspection

[@smartdrivetest]

How did the test go Joanne? Cheers Rick