Got Questions? Hendrickson Ride Solutions

Q. What are some of Hendrickson’s recommendations for maximizing brake component performance and life?

A. A comprehensive preventative maintenance program includes two critical components: maintaining good records and understanding your operating conditions. Dynamics like average length of haul, application, terrain, driver patterns and tractor-trailer equipment combinations are crucial factors to consider when determining intervals at which brake linings should be replaced. Depending on the vehicle’s duty cycle and operation conditions, brake life varies. Adjusting brake lining inspection intervals to account for these differences and ensuring the brakes are serviced before exceeding their wear limits will help maximize overall ROI.

Additionally, choose replacement parts carefully. When deciding between OEM versus non-OEM replacement components, consider performance and lifespan implications that come along with each of these options. OEM friction materials are rigorously evaluated for performance, wear, and structural integrity. Unfortunately, many non-OEM aftermarket brakes do not undergo the same stringent testing standards as OEM brake parts, so even though a customer may think they are getting an equivalent part to the original equipment spec, brake performance and lifespan could vary greatly.

Good technicians and knowledgeable drivers are essential to the success of a fleet’s maintenance program, and comprehensive preventative maintenance includes a few critical components: diligence in performing routine inspections, maintaining good records, and understanding operating conditions.

Fleet should invest time and money into a good training program for their maintenance teams, and make certain that thorough, proper inspections take place within the OEM- recommended inspection frequency to avoid costly downtime from unexpected breakdowns.

It is also worth mentioning the upcoming copper compliance laws for 2025. Although most drum brake linings already meet the 2025 spec, many air-disc brake materials are not yet compliant. Therefore, fleets should be aware of potential changes to brake wear patterns as copper continues to be eliminated from pad formulations. Copper is a proven additive to brake pad formulations. As the industry works towards becoming more environmentally friendly by reducing copper levels, it remains to be seen how this action will impact the overall performance and maintenance costs of the entire braking system.

Hendrickson - MAXX22T Air Disc Brakes (hendrickson-intl.com)