Engine / Drivetrain Wear

Engine / Drivetrain Wear
Posted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 2:53:23 PM

Please help me answer a question regarding the use of engine retarders on Fire Engines being used in a small community. Are there any significant disadvantages to our using engine retarders on our Fire Engines at ALL TIMES ? We have had some operators switch the retarder OFF during non-emergency driving, and other operators have nearly crashed during emergency responses because they did not realize that the retarded was OFF. I am about to implement a policy requiring that the retarder remain in the ON position at all times, but wanted to verify that this would not cause any additional wear to our engines. Please let me know as soon as possible. Thanks !

RE: Engine / Drivetrain Wear
Posted: Wed Jan 26, 2005 9:07:46 AM

Jerry,
A engine retarder does not cause any access wear from operating. There are not any disadvanteges to utilizing an engine retarder all the time. The only time it would be detrimental is if a driver utilizes it instead of the clutch to shift. This has been known to chip a tooth or so in the transmission if a driver does not shift right. The main purpose of on/off switch is for a driver to shut the engine retader off during idle periods and during slippery road conditions while empty. The retarder can cause a skid on slippery roads. I hope I answered your questions. If not feel free to ask away.