Brakes: The Payload Effect!
You've seen the commercials for pickup trucks--heavy-duty machinery hoisting construction materials so hefty that when placed in the bed, the entire back dips under the weight, and then bounces back up. Most pickup drivers want to able to carry a large payload. But are all trucks sturdy? Does payload really make a difference when it comes to the efficiency of brakes? Be sure to check with your brake service specialist for expert advice.
What is the Payload Effect?
- Weight - Payload is the amount of weight a vehicle can safely hold. This amount doesn't change over the life of the truck. Overloading a truck will change how it steers and brakes. Even a heavier payload that is within a safe amount puts a strain on brakes because there is a higher baking temperature. Steering can also be more difficult because of the increased weight. Think about how you move and stop when holding an empty cardboard box. Now think about trying those quick moves with 200 pounds in the box. This same concept applies to a vehicle's payload.
- Distribution – The distribution of the cargo also plays a role in how payload affects steering and braking. The center of gravity in a truck can be shifted by placing a lot of weight in the back. Brakes and steering can be affected differently depending on what constitutes the payload--and how it is distributed. Occasionally, a heavy or oddly distributed payload can cause brakes to lock up.
- Shifting - Cargo should always be properly secured, with padding added as necessary to keep the payload from moving. Don't put any unnecessary strain on the brakes, or allow any damage to the cargo.
Remember: While driving with a heavy payload, take extra care and avoid sudden or hard stops. This will help to keep the strain on brakes to a minimum. If in doubt as to the correct payload your vehicle can handle, be sure to ask your brake service technician for professional advice.
Looking for quality brake service? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go online at https://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information about brakes. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.
You've seen the commercials for pickup trucks--heavy-duty machinery hoisting construction materials so hefty that when placed in the bed, the entire back dips under the weight, and then bounces back up. Most pickup drivers want to able to carry a large payload. But are all trucks sturdy? Does payload really make a difference when it comes to the efficiency of brakes? Be sure to check with your brake service specialist for expert advice.
What is the Payload Effect?
- Weight - Payload is the amount of weight a vehicle can safely hold. This amount doesn't change over the life of the truck. Overloading a truck will change how it steers and brakes. Even a heavier payload that is within a safe amount puts a strain on brakes because there is a higher baking temperature. Steering can also be more difficult because of the increased weight. Think about how you move and stop when holding an empty cardboard box. Now think about trying those quick moves with 200 pounds in the box. This same concept applies to a vehicle's payload.
- Distribution – The distribution of the cargo also plays a role in how payload affects steering and braking. The center of gravity in a truck can be shifted by placing a lot of weight in the back. Brakes and steering can be affected differently depending on what constitutes the payload--and how it is distributed. Occasionally, a heavy or oddly distributed payload can cause brakes to lock up.
- Shifting - Cargo should always be properly secured, with padding added as necessary to keep the payload from moving. Don't put any unnecessary strain on the brakes, or allow any damage to the cargo.
Remember: While driving with a heavy payload, take extra care and avoid sudden or hard stops. This will help to keep the strain on brakes to a minimum. If in doubt as to the correct payload your vehicle can handle, be sure to ask your brake service technician for professional advice.
Looking for quality brake service? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go online at https://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information about brakes. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.
