Source: Meritor’s Justin McCoy wrote the following article, which is excerpted here, for Vehicle Service Pros. The entire piece can be viewed, with additional images, by clicking HERE.

TROY, Mich. – A growing number of fleets are adopting air disc brakes (ADBs). In fact, some forecasts show 30 percent of the North American market will be specifying ADBs by 2020, compared to 10 percent in 2010.

Fleets have experienced reduced stopping distances with ADBs, providing payback in the form of fewer accidents.

Plus, ADBs providing substantial savings in time and labor when it comes to maintenance and repair. However, any new technology comes with a learning curve, and ADBs are no exception.

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It is important for technicians to know how to inspect and maintain ADBs, not only to protect the equipment but to ensure the fleet experiences the full benefit of their investment. It is a case where a little training pays off in a big way

Inspection routines to consider

Fleets can start by implementing an inspection routine that includes intermittent wheels-on inspections as well as more comprehensive (but less frequent) wheels-off inspections to keep their calipers in working order.

Wheels-on inspection for ADBs

The technician can take a quick look at each brake for pad wear and rotor condition, followed by an adjustment test. Further, the caliper can be inspected for any loose or missing caps, plugs, and mounting bolts.

This type of inspection should be done during the fleet’s or manufacturer’s chassis lubrication schedule or at least four times between pad changes – whichever is most frequent.

Wheels-off inspection for ADBs

This is a more thorough inspection that allows the technician to check the slide pin, tappet boots, and pad abutments. The technician can then check for caliper free play, which is an indicator of bushing or slide pin wear. This should be done during a wheel service or tire replacement.

While this may sound complicated, ADBs are easier to service than drum brakes because they are built with fewer components. Reduced labor costs and increased vehicle uptime represent enormous potential benefits to fleets.

Manufacturers of ADBs are the best sources of maintenance and service information on their systems.

The entire post can be viewed by clicking HERE.