Engine Brakes

Summary

Most people have no idea what an engine brake is, but they know it when they hear it. It is a deafening bellowing noise that trucks produce when they slow down. Engine brakes are primarily used as a means to reduce the costs of maintaining standard wheel brakes.

An engine brake is also known as a Jake Brake or Retarder. A Jake Brake takes its name from the manufacturer who invented the most common implementation of the technology, Jacobs Vehicle Systems.

The device works by turning the engine into an air compressor that absorbs energy, the retarding effect slows down the truck. The sudden release of pressure creates an explosive roaring staccato noise that can be heard hundreds of feet away.

Originally designed for semi-trailer diesel trucks, engine brakes have been adapted for use in tow trucks, utility and emergency vehicles, buses, and recreational vehicles.

Without a properly installed system to mitigate the noise, it is a serious noise pollution hazard. The noise is an acoustical nightmare for people who live near highways or truck routes.

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Industry

The manufacturers of engine brakes is Jacobs Vehicle Systems, Pacbrake Engine and Exhaust Brakes, and Voith Turbo.

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Legislation

Every state has a Department of Transportation (DOT) agency that is responsible to inspect trucks for safety and environmental compliance.

Many municipalities have banned the use of unmuffled compression brakes. Some municipalities allow the use of engine brakes only in the event of an emergency.