The braking systems on semi-trucks and trailers differ significantly from those on standard passenger vehicles. Semis, trailers, and many large motorhome RVs are equipped with air brakes that use compressed air instead of hydraulic fluid to apply pressure to the pads to slow and stop the vehicle. They are more reliable than car and lighter truck brakes that stop functioning due to fluid leaks. Air brakes can also be easily connected to one or more trailers to provide powerful braking for the whole vehicle.

 

As reliable as air braking systems are, they are subject to wear and tear, just like any other mechanical system. Semi-trucks and trailers carry heavy loads, and this extreme weight puts stress on brake components. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your air brakes operating when it counts most. Bakersfield 58 offers free brake inspection to find issues before they become a hazard to you and other drivers. A problem with the brakes on your car or truck is dangerous. When you involve a heavy-duty truck or tractor trailer, you multiply the risk exponentially.

 

As a professional driver, you know when something's off with the brakes on your semi-truck or trailer. And to make money, you have to keep your rig moving down the road safely. But finding the right mechanic to ensure the job is done right isn't always easy. At Bakersfield 58, we always put safety first, and truckers from all over trust our expert mechanics to keep their entire air braking system running smoothly.

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WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU INSPECT OR SERVICE MY AIR BRAKES?

Air brake maintenance involves regular services, including replacing the brake pads and resurfacing the rotors. If we find severe wear and tear or damage to the system, we may recommend replacing the air braking system components completely. The brake pads on most commercial trucks and trailers should be replaced every 50,000 miles. However, this can vary on several factors like how often your drive, how heavy your loads are, and the road conditions where you drive the most. And overexposure to dirt, grime, and road salt can cause premature corrosion on brake rotors and other parts of semi-truck air brake systems.

 

SIGNS YOUR AIR BRAKES NEED MAINTENANCE

When your brakes are in serious need of attention, they are likely to give you some signs. The following are common indicators that your brake pads or rotors are worn and need to be replaced.

 

Sound indicators:

• Your brakes make a high-pitched squealing noise when you apply them. This is a sure indicator that your brake pads have reached their end of life.

• Your brakes make a grinding sound when braking. This often indicates that your brake pads are badly worn and grinding against the rotors. In this case, we recommend calling us immediately, as continued driving will likely result in irreparable damage to the rotors.

 

Feel indicators:

• Pulling: When your rig pulls to the left or right it can mean there are issues with the brake calipers, air brake hose, or other system components. It could also be that your truck alignment is off or there is a problem with the tires. It's important to have the pulling properly diagnosed by a qualified technician to make sure the right issue is identified and fixed.

• Vibrations: If your semi-truck vibrates when you apply the brakes in a non-emergency situation, the cause could be a warped rotor or another rotor-related issue. Warping can result from the heat produced by friction when carrying heavy loads.

• Changes in brake pedal resistance: If the pedal feels loose or it takes more effort to press down and get the vehicle to stop, there may be a leak or other issue with your air brake line.

 

WHAT ABOUT THE WHEEL BEARINGS ON MY TRUCK?

Wheel bearing replacement is another vital service that will help keep your rig on the road and profitable. The seals on wheel bearings can be damaged or broken under stress. When there's a problem, you'll notice a rumbling or whirring noise, or your truck might sound like a helicopter when you're driving it. It may start subtly but will likely worsen over time, and you may also notice it more when driving at higher speeds. Other signs that your wheel bearings on your truck may need replacement can include:

 

• Shuddering or vibrations at constant speeds

• Uneven rotor, brake pad, or tire wear

• The wheels wobble slightly

• You hear clicking, clunking, or knocking noises when you make turns

• The truck pulls to one side when you apply the brakes (a warped rotor can also cause this)

 

HEAVY DUTY TRUCK BRAKE SERVICES

Bakersfield 58 Truck & Trailer Alignment is your complete source for heavy-duty, semi-truck, and trailer maintenance and repair, including air brakes and wheel bearing replacements. From regular maintenance to a total air brake system replacement, we have the expertise and tools to do the job right.

 

Our mechanics specialize in large vehicle and semi-truck brake service. We only use high-quality parts from the industry's leading manufacturers. We provide the following air brake maintenance and repair services at our BAKERSFIELD 58 truck repair shops:

 

• Valves

• Rotor resurfacing/replacement

• Brake shoes

• Brake hardware

• Air brake hoses

• Air brake fittings

• Brake chambers

• Turning brake drums

• Wheel seals

• Wheel bearings

• Air tanks

• Brake installations

• System troubleshooting

 

We are proud to carry the complete line of Bendix products, and semi-truck/trailer air braking components from other leading manufacturers.