What is Engine Braking?
1 Answers
The so-called "engine braking" is a term in driving behavior, which refers to effectively controlling vehicle speed by utilizing the resistance generated during engine operation. Both "downshifting" and "releasing the throttle" commonly mentioned can achieve the purpose of using engine resistance to control speed. Below is relevant information: 1. Definition of Braking: Braking, commonly known as "applying the brakes," is the action of stopping or reducing the speed of moving locomotives, vehicles, other transportation tools, or machinery. The general principle of braking is to fix a wheel or disc on the high-speed shaft of the machine and install corresponding brake shoes, bands, or discs on the machine base to generate braking torque under external force. 2. Advantages of Engine Braking: (1) Due to the differential effect, braking torque can be evenly distributed on the left and right wheels, reducing the possibility of skidding or fishtailing; (2) Effectively reduces the frequency of using foot brakes, avoiding prolonged use of brakes that could lead to increased temperature of the brake friction pads, resulting in reduced braking efficiency or even failure; (3) Vehicle speed is always limited within a certain range, facilitating timely deceleration or stopping, ensuring driving safety. 3. Process of Engine Braking: (1) On slippery surfaces such as tar roads, muddy or icy roads, engine braking should be utilized as much as possible, along with flexible use of the parking brake, minimizing foot braking. If foot braking is necessary, intermittent braking is preferred, avoiding locking the wheels to prevent skidding. (2) On steep roads such as long downhill slopes or rugged mountain paths, engine braking must be used in combination with intermittent braking to control speed. Prolonged use of brakes can affect braking efficiency or even render them ineffective. Therefore, in such situations, it is advisable to stop and rest appropriately, allowing the brake drums and shoes to cool before continuing. (3) When using engine braking, select the appropriate gear based on road conditions and vehicle load, and apply appropriate wheel braking according to the vehicle speed. Too low a gear results in excessively slow speed; too high a gear leads to frequent use of wheel brakes.
