campermom

Jake brakes are also called engine brakes. I see the signs outside towns like Johnson City, and Blanco. I asked my husband, the truck driver about it. It is a very effective way to slow the engine, thus slow the truck, especially with a heavier load, with less wear on the brakes. It's like down-shifting a 5 speed. Some drivers use it more due to what they are hauling. With all the gravel haulers around here, that might be why we hear it often. Hubbie says he seldom uses the Jake but when he does, it's not in town. Now, if all truckers could be that courteous.