Red Seal Transport Trailer Technician Practice Exam

What should be done if a trailer experiences brake fade?

1. Increase speed

2. Allow the brakes to cool and avoid heavy braking

3. Use the emergency brake immediately

4. Apply more weight to the trailer

The correct answer is: Allow the brakes to cool and avoid heavy braking

When a trailer experiences brake fade, it is crucial to allow the brakes to cool and avoid heavy braking. Brake fade occurs when the braking system becomes overheated due to excessive use, which can diminish its effectiveness. This condition is typically the result of prolonged or excessive pressure on the braking system, leading to overheating of the brake components. Allowing the brakes to cool provides the necessary time for the materials to recover from the heat, restoring their friction properties and ensuring more effective braking performance once the vehicle resumes normal operation. Avoiding heavy braking during this cooling period is equally important, as continued heavy braking could exacerbate the problem by generating more heat. Engaging in maneuvers that increase speed would not address the underlying issue of brake fade and would place the vehicle at risk of insufficient stopping power. Similarly, using the emergency brake can be dangerous, as it may lead to a loss of control, especially if the vehicle is moving at speed. Applying more weight to the trailer also does not benefit the braking system; instead, it could further increase the load that needs to be stopped, worsening the fade situation. Therefore, escaping the cycle of brake fade requires a cooling-off period for the brakes and a cautious approach to braking thereafter.