Driving A Dually? Equipment Tips For A Safer Driving Experience
by George Mason
A truck equipped with dual rear wheels (DRW), sometimes called a "dually," is often preferred over a truck that is only equipped with single rear wheels (SRW) for many types of hauling jobs. This is because trucks with dual rear wheels have a greater amount of tire surface to apply to the road surface to make pulling capabilities more powerful and efficient. In addition, trucks with dual real wheels can offer a more stable driving experience in areas that are subjected to significant cross wind pressure, as well as help to ensure a safer experience and give the truck more stability during a blowout situation when one of the dual tires receives damaged. Driving a dual-wheeled truck, however, does require a few additional safety considerations, especially when they will be used for pulling a trailer.
The Fifth Wheel Hitch
Adding a fifth wheel hitching system to your dually truck may be the optimal towing option for hauling but drivers should be aware that this type of hitch does place additional pressure on the rear suspension of the truck. This is because, unlike a bumper hitch, the fifth wheel hitch is installed directly over the rear axle of the truck, causing downward pressure from the trailer's weight to bear directly on the truck's rear axle and suspension. In addition to increasing wear on the axle and suspension, this additional weight creates additional pressure on the truck's rear braking system and the tires that must bear the weight.
Air Brakes
Creating optimal stopping capabilities for a dual wheel truck often starts with an air braking system, either as factory option or as an after-market improvement. Current law already requires that vehicles used to pull trailers be equipped with braking systems capable of ensuring that the towing vehicle can still be safely brought to a stop in the event of a breakaway trailer incident, and air braking systems are an effective way to do this.
Air braking systems use the parts of the existing service and parking brake systems to optimize braking capabilities by pumping air into storage tanks, or reservoirs, via an air compressor system. When the brake pedal is applied, air pressure from the reservoirs is moved into the brake chambers to bring the vehicle to a stop.
Even though air brakes are designed to create an efficient, safe braking experience, drivers should still be aware that the condition of the vehicle's actual brakes, usually drum-style or disc brakes, should be monitored frequently for wear on the brake shoes and other components. In addition to having them checked periodically by a reputable brake shop, trucks that are involved in an emergency stopping procedure where the rear brakes are repeatedly stressed should be checked for wear before being returned to service to help prevent potential brake failures where towing.
For more information, contact companies like Godfrey Brake Service & Supply.
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About Me
When I started traveling a lot for work, I realized that my older vehicle might not make the grade as far as performance went. My car was old, outdated, and needed a lot of repairs. It was frustrating to deal with issues on the road, but unfortunately, I came across more than just a few. This blog is here for anyone who needs to improve their car's performance. By reading these articles, you might be able to hone in on problems that are ruining your vehicle, make the necessary steps to make things right, and protect yourself while you are traveling for work.