Stopping Distance; Braking On Downgrades - Fleetwood American Dream WIDE BODY 1998 Owner's Manual

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AIR BRAKE SYSTEM
Page 5 of 5
Stopping Distance
With air brakes there is an added delay. After the brake pedal is pressed, the ..
air may take a fraction of a second to activate the brake mechanisms on the
wheels. For this reason, the total stopping distance will increase depending on
speed. Under good traction and brake conditions, this delay may add up to 35
feet at 55 mph, making the total distance over 300 feet at that speed. Please be
aware of this increase in stopping distance; and anticipate your stops with this
in mind .
. Braking On Downgrades
Downhill driving-puts extra strain on many drivetrain components of your
motor home. The brakes are easily overloaded and 'overheated when used for
downhill slowing. Brake fade will occur if the brakes overheat.
When driving down long grades, shift the transmission to a lower gear at the
top ofthe grade. Rule of thumb: Use the same lowest gear going down as it
took to go up the hill. Crest the hill in the lower gear. Do not exceed the
.. maximum downhill engine speed with PAC brake ON of 2700 RPM. Monitor
.. your speed.
Please see the Chassis Owner's Manual for more information about brake .-
. system operation and downhilldrjving techniques. '
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American Dream
© 1997 Fleetwood Enterprises Inc.
All rights reserved
Wide Body
ISSUE DATE: 6/97