What does a "no jake brake" sign mean?

[Boots]

When I went to Walmart last night I saw one of these and I have never heard of it before. What in the world is a jake brake?????

 

[BarryHom]

I think I've seen signs for "No jake brakes" while traveling in Ohio. Who is Jake and what does he have to do with brakes?

 

[mudnuri]

well...lets see if i can explain it

a "jake brake" is actually a trade marked name for an engine brake used in Diesel engines. Mostly 18 wheelers have them.

Some diesel pickups- mine included have an exhaust brake.

when a trucker lets off the gas- the engine/exhaust brakes- thats the loud rumble you hear.

Some towns/cities tried a few years ago to ban them, HOWEVER that said- it was found by supreme courts, that they are safety features. So truckers dont run outta air, in their air brake systems, they rely on these brakes.

Hope that was clearer than mudd.

Brandy

 

[PoohnPglet]

It is for truckers. I am not sure exactly how it works but it has something to do with their air brakes. I think the jake brake is a way for them to slow down with out actually braking and having to down shift. ( I am from Colorado and we have these signs all over the highway in the mountains.)

 

[ahutton]

The reason you see signs posted is because of the noise caused when they are used - very loud... Most cities try to ban them or limit the use.

 

[Figment22]

"Jake Brake" is short for Jacobs. Here's the full story:

Jacobs Vehicle Systems-Jake Brakes