A Jake Brake is a type of compression release brake that helps truck drivers slow down their truck without wearing out the service brakes. Commonly called an engine brake, Jake Brakes are often used in large diesel engines on semi-trucks.

Why do they call it Jake braking?

Where Does the Name Jake Brake Come From? The name Jake Brake comes from a product that, unsurprisingly, is named the Jacobs Engine Brake. The company that makes them, Jacobs Vehicle Systems, says that its system is a diesel engine retarder that uses the engine to help slow the vehicle.

Is Jake brake illegal?

Jake braking is illegal in some areas due to the noise disturbance it produces; often resembling the sound of gunshots and in some areas could potentially cause environmental repercussions.

What is the difference between a Jake brake and an engine brake?

For most people, engine braking is a given in vehicles; but the truth is only gasoline engines have engine braking. ... A Jake brake creates braking force by releasing the compressed air inside the cylinders.

What are the disadvantages of a Jake brake?

Drawbacks. Although Jake brakes are powerful, they're not without their problems. The first is that the design is noisy; if you've ever heard a machinegun-like clatter echoing through a mountain valley then you've experienced the Jake brake's signature howl.

How a Jake Brake Works - Jacobs Vehicle Systems

22 related questions found

Can you put a Jake brake on a car?

While Jake brakes are common on large trucks, we don't have them on cars. Why is that? They allow extra braking power, they don't upset the balance of the vehicle and they reduce wear on brakes.

Where are jake brakes illegal?

A small city in Missouri has created a new law which prohibits truckers from using their jake brakes in certain areas. Truckers are used to seeing signs saying “engine braking prohibited,” but this city is taking it a step further. Any driver violating the new law could spend up to three months in prison.

Can you use Jake Brake in snow?

Drivers, DO NOT use the Jake brake on icy or slick roads. It is not designed to be used in slippery conditions. If you do decide to use the Jake brake in other winter conditions (like snow or slush) it's important to make sure the tractor trailer unit is lined up and straight before engaging the Jake brake.

Can you use a Jake Brake in the rain?

The jake is set on the lowest setting and the RPMs are lower when I allow it to activate. So is it ok to use the jakes in the rain, I would say yes it is once you know your truck and the effect the jake has on the truck. Can this be dangerous? Yes it can.

How effective are Jake brakes?

Few people know that Jake brakes are a very effective way to slow down the truck. The compression release brake will not only help drivers maintain control over their truck but will also increase the life of friction brakes. The trucking industry recognizes that these brakes are very helpful to the life of their rig.

How loud is a Jake Brake?

Jacobs Vehicle Systems, the leading manufacturer of engine brakes, says that the noise emitted by a properly maintained rig with an OEM muffler is within the 80 to 83 decibel dB(A) range, which is 10 to 13 decibels above the high range of normal conversation.

When should you not use a Jake Brake?

Do not use the Jake in icy or slippery road conditions! Avoid using it when the truck is not going at a controlled speed, also. 2. If you must use it, make sure your trailer is straight and lined up behind the cab to prevent jackknifing.

What js a Jake Brake?

"Jake Brake", or "compression release brake", is a component installed on diesel engines that slows the vehicle without the driver having to apply the service (foot) brakes. The Jake Brake releases compressed air from the cylinder, slowing the vehicle by absorbing the engine's power.

Why do some roads not allow Jake Brakes?

In a nutshell, these are signs prohibiting truckers from using a braking method that is very loud. The trucks' engines are involved in the braking and the loud exhaust bark of the engine as it performs this braking action is disruptive to the neighbors who happen to live in the area where truckers want to use it.

Are Jake Brakes illegal in California?

You might see the sign Jake Braking Prohibited, No Jake Brakes within City Limits, or No Engine Braking within City Limits in your travels across California. If you're ever beside a big rig when they use their engine brakes, you'll know why some small towns do not want the noise.

Does a Jake Brake hurt the engine?

When used correctly, Jake Brakes don't cause harm to the engine. ... If an engine brake is used when oil is low, it can cause damage to the engine. Truck drivers should also be sure to let the engine warm-up before using an engine brake. If they use a Jake Brake with a cold engine, it can cause damage.

Does Jake Brake use more fuel?

“Does excessive use of jake brakes waste fuel?” The answer to that question is yes and so does excessive use of your foundation brakes. ... The combustion inside the engine turns that fuel into two things: heat and work. Heat (thermal energy) is what you do not want and work (mechanical energy) is what you do want.

How do you activate a Jake Brake?

To activate, the driver takes his foot OFF the fuel (when the jake is left on at all times). It can be used in combination with the foot brake. One thing MOST truckers can agree on with it's operation…. it is NOT necessary to have the jake operating in a truck stop parking lot!

Who invented the Jake brake?

The modified engine can continue to power the truck in normal operation, allowing service brakes to remain cool for emergency situations. Invented by Clessie Lyle Cummins (1886-1968), this device (produced by the Jacobs manufacturing company since 1961) has contributed significantly to highway safety.

Why is engine braking illegal?

Engine braking is prohibited in some areas because of the loud noise it creates. ... Typically, research shows the decibel level to be the same as that of a large lawnmower, but in early morning or late at night, the sound a jake brake causes when engaged can be very disruptive to local communities.

How do you make a jake brake louder?

You have to release compression pressure at the top of the compression stroke instead of at the end of the power stroke to make that noise.

Why do trucks make hissing sounds?

Have you ever wondered why trucks and buses make those funny squeaking and hissing sounds? The squeaking is the air escaping after braking and the ppssss sound is the automatic bypass safety valves at work, ensuring the air pressure remains at the correct level.

Should you have your exhaust brake on all the time?

The answer is yes – exhaust brake is not harmful to the engine at all. It is even recommended for truckers to have an exhaust brake. Mostly because trucks are heavy and need a lot of stopping power to make a full stop – especially during downhill.