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BRAKES: Proper, improper uses

| February 11, 2018 12:00 AM

In regard to the Feb. 2 local section of Coeur d’Alene Press about the use of Jake brakes in Coeur d’Alene. I feel like I’m some sort of an expert on this subject. I have more than 4 million miles accident free and was driving before Jake brakes were heard of.

Back then, drivers used their skill coming down a grade using no more than 3-5 PSI applied pressure to the brake system. The company I worked for was a Heavy Haul Operation (like a D8 Cat). My point is that the Jake brake was a great invention, saving a lot of truck run-offs, but it was designed to use on hills and not to shift with. Needless to say, Coeur d’Alene and vicinity is flat. I agree then with those folks who complain about the use of Jake brakes in town. Not all drivers are guilty of this misuse, but like always, there are a few out there who create the problem — just like any profession.

LARRY STORY

Post Falls