Bendix Shares Tips for CVSA Brake Safety Week

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With Brake Safety Week approaching from August 25-31, Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems offers essential advice for fleet operators and drivers to prepare for the annual inspection event led by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA). The initiative aims to reduce brake-related issues on North American roads through rigorous inspections across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Bendix emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance and equipment checks to avoid violations and enhance vehicle safety.

Key Highlights:

• Brake Safety Week runs from August 25-31 across North America.
• CVSA inspections focus on brake system violations to enhance road safety.
• Preparation tips include daily, weekly, and monthly inspections of brake components.
• Special focus this year on contaminated, worn, cracked, and missing linings or pads.
• Bendix underscores the importance of selecting the right brake parts to ensure compliance with safety standards.

What to Expect:
During Brake Safety Week, inspectors will conduct North American Standard Inspections, focusing on various brake-related components. They will check for missing or damaged parts, air leaks, and proper operation of braking systems, among other factors. This year’s inspections will place special emphasis on contaminated, worn, cracked, or missing brake linings or pads.

How to Prepare:
Bendix advises regular inspections as a proactive measure to prevent brake-related issues. Daily checks should include examining air chambers, pushrods, slack adjusters, and hoses. Weekly inspections should focus on air disc brake rotors, drum brake linings, and air leaks. Monthly checks should ensure the air system is free from moisture to avoid contamination and system leaks. Additionally, greasing S-cam brake tubes and automatic slack adjusters during maintenance can prevent rust and corrosion.

Differences Between Drums and Discs:
Bendix highlights that air disc brakes have an internal adjustment mechanism, making their brake stroke measurement different from drum brakes. Proper maintenance of both brake types is crucial to avoid issues such as decreased stopping power or increased pad wear.

Selecting the Right Parts:
Choosing the correct brake friction is essential to meet original equipment manufacturer (OEM) requirements and avoid non-compliance. Incorrect friction selection can lead to brake system damage and potential inspection violations.

Technical Support and Training:
Bendix offers extensive resources to support fleet operators, including in-person training, online courses, and a podcast. Their technical support team is available for advice on system maintenance and troubleshooting.

About Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC:
Bendix is a leader in developing and supplying active safety technologies and brake systems for commercial vehicles in North America. With over 4,400 employees, Bendix is committed to enhancing vehicle safety, performance, and operational efficiency.