Ensuring Safe Commercial Vehicle Operation: A Guide to Brake Inspections According to CVSA Procedures
Emery & Karrigan, Inc.
Commercial vehicles are an essential part of our economy, and ensuring their safety on the road is of utmost importance. One critical aspect of ensuring commercial vehicle safety is performing regular brake inspections. The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is an organization that promotes safe commercial vehicle operation and provides guidelines for brake inspections. In this blog post, we will discuss the procedures for brake inspections according to the CVSA.
Preparation
The first step in performing a brake inspection is preparing the vehicle for inspection. This includes parking the vehicle on level ground, engaging the parking brake, and chocking the wheels to prevent movement. It is also important to ensure that the vehicle is turned off and has cooled down for at least an hour to prevent burns from hot components.
Inspection of Brake Components
The next step is inspecting the various brake components. This includes checking the brake linings, brake drums or rotors, brake chambers, air hoses, and valves. The inspector will check for worn or damaged parts, leaks, and proper installation. The brake linings must be at least ¼ inch thick, and the drums or rotors must be within specifications for thickness and runout.
Measurement of Brake Force
Once the brake components have been inspected, the inspector will measure the brake force. This is done using a force measurement device, which is placed between the pushrod and the brake chamber. The inspector will then apply the brakes and measure the force exerted by the brakes. The brake force should be at least 50% of the maximum allowed force for the vehicle.
Measurement of Brake Balance
The next step is measuring the brake balance. This is done by applying the brakes and measuring the force exerted by each wheel. The inspector will compare the measurements to ensure that the brakes are balanced correctly. If the brake balance is off, adjustments may need to be made to correct it.
Documentation
Finally, the inspector will document the results of the brake inspection. This includes noting any defects found and the measurements taken. The inspector will also provide a report to the vehicle owner or operator, indicating whether the vehicle has passed or failed the inspection.
In conclusion, performing regular brake inspections is essential for the safe operation of commercial vehicles. The CVSA provides guidelines for brake inspections to ensure that they are conducted correctly and consistently. By following these procedures, vehicle owners and operators can help ensure the safety of their vehicles and everyone on the road.
