ABS Systems

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is an important safety feature on tractor-trailers as it helps to prevent wheel lock up and skidding during sudden braking or when driving on slippery surfaces. When a driver applies the brakes on a tractor-trailer, the wheels can easily lock up due to the vehicle's heavyweight and braking force; this can cause the wheels to skid, which reduces the ability of the driver to control the truck.

 

ABS is an area that you will need to pay closer attention to. It is difficult to fake your way through this because if there is a problem with your ABS, the orange LED on the side of the trailer will likely stay lit like a flag waving in the wind. If your trailer's light comes on and stays on, check your electrical cord connections on the nose of the trailer and the back of the cab. If this doesn't help, go back to the LED light and check that the wiring there is all intact and corrosion-free. 

 

As always, get your equipment worked on and fixed correctly. Cutting the wire for the LED light on the trailer is not a solution, so don't do it! Remember to do your Brake LAB leaks/alarms/buttons test every time you hook a new trailer; this will ensure your system isn't leaking and your brakes are properly adjusted. ABS systems are a crucial safety feature on tractor-trailers and can help prevent accidents and protect the lives of drivers and other road users.