Engine braking is prohibited majorly because of the loud noise that it causes. Diesel engine trucks, in particular, release a loud noise during engine braking, similar to the noise produced when you fire a gun.
It is common to see engine braking prohibition signs on toll roads and interstate roads near residential areas. The loud noise produced by engine braking is due to the sudden release of compressed air from the engine cylinders through the exhaust valve.
The compressed air has a lot of pressure, and when the exhaust valve is suddenly opened, the escaping air creates a loud noise. The noise is irritating and disruptive to the residents living near the roads, which leads to the prohibition of engine braking.
Additionally, engine braking is prohibited due to its constant abuse by drivers. Some drivers use engine braking in wrong situations, such as when there is low visibility.
Compared to pedal braking, engine braking is not connected to the rear brake lights. Therefore, when there is low visibility and cars are close together on the road, engine braking can result in road accidents due to the lack of braking warning to the other drivers.
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Does Engine Braking Prohibition Refer to Possible Engine Damage?
Engine braking is generally considered a safe practice. When you perform an engine brake, energy is released when the compressed air escapes, reducing the engine’s energy and causing the vehicle to slow down.
The engine is designed to accommodate these changes, so engine braking should not cause any harm. However, there are a few driving tips to consider to prevent transmission damage during engine braking.
Foremost, it would help if you shifted gears gradually when doing engine braking to allow the engine to adapt to the change. Next, don’t switch to low gears when driving at high speeds.
Make sure that the gear and the speed of the vehicle match. Lastly, ensure that the engine has enough oil, thus, is well lubricated to withstand the friction in the drive train caused by engine braking.
Failure to follow these driving instructions when engine braking can result in possible engine damage.
What are the Effects of Engine Braking?
Engine braking reduces the wear on the vehicle’s brake pads and tires, increasing their service length. This is because engine braking acts as a substitute to pedal braking in certain circumstances, thus reducing the strain imposed on the pedal brakes.
Likewise, engine braking enhances vehicle control, particularly on steep roads, as it necessitates the driver to shift to lower gears, reducing the vehicle’s speed.
Moreover, engine braking minimizes the time needed to slow down the car or bring it to a complete stop. When applied together with pedal brakes, the slowing down effect is amplified.
Is Engine Braking Prohibited in All US States?
Not all US States do not prohibit engine braking. The US states that allow the use of engine braking by special vehicle combinations include California, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania.
Additionally, some states allow the use of engine braking, provided special conditions such as the use of mufflers are followed. The states that necessitate mufflers on engine braking systems include Kansas, Montana, and Oregon.
In contrast, the states that strictly prohibit engine braking within city limits include Texas (Austin), Indiana (Madison), and Colorado (Glenwood Springs).
Is Engine Braking the Same as Downshifting?
Engine braking is different from downshifting. Downshifting refers to gradually changing gears from high gear to lower gear. In contrast, during engine braking, the driver stops accelerating and begins downshifting to match the vehicle’s speed to the gear.
Although engine braking necessitates downshifting, downshifting can happen independently without engine braking.
What is the Road Sign for “Not Engine Braking”?
There are several popular signs to indicate the prohibition of engine braking. The most popular sign states, “Engine Braking Prohibited.”
Since trucks are the most likely to perform engine braking, there are “Trucks Please No Jake Brake” and “No Jake Brake” signs on some rural trucking routes.
The term Jake Brake is used synonymously with engine braking. Other road signs to notify drivers of engine braking prohibition include “Do Not Use Engine Brakes” and “No Engine Brake.”
Final thoughts
Engine braking is a highly advantageous method that preserves your vehicle’s brakes and tires, improves vehicle control, and slows down the car faster.
It is widely recognized as a safety procedure, particularly for trucks driving on steep roads. However, engine braking is prohibited in several areas due to the loud noise that accompanies it.
Furthermore, the belief that engine braking harms the engine is incorrect. Only when engine braking is performed without following the correct procedure can engine damage be sustained.
