As a driver, I have often heard the terms “Jake brake” and “engine brake” thrown around interchangeably. However, these two braking mechanisms are not the same.
Both brakes are designed to slow down a vehicle without having to rely solely on friction brakes, but each operates in a different way and has its own advantages and disadvantages.
A Jake brake, also known as a compression release engine brake, is a mechanism that opens the exhaust valves in a diesel engine to release compressed gas and slow down the vehicle. When activated, the Jake brake releases the energy stored in the compressed air, which is then released into the atmosphere.
This type of brake is often used in heavy trucks and is known for its loud noise, which can be a nuisance to nearby residents.
On the other hand, an engine brake, also known as an exhaust brake, creates pressurized air inside the cylinder head to push the piston on the downstroke. The pressure increases because of a closed valve, which in turn forces the vehicle to slow down.
This type of brake is often used in pickup trucks and is known for its quieter operation.
I will explore the differences between Jake brakes and engine brakes, including their operation, usage, cost, and braking efficiency. I will also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type of brake, as well as their impact on fuel efficiency and wear and tear on the vehicle.
I will touch on the legal issues surrounding the use of Jake brakes in certain areas, as well as the trademarked Jacobs engine brake developed by Jacobs Vehicle Systems.
By the end of this article, readers will have a better understanding of the differences between Jake brakes and engine brakes and be able to make an informed decision on which type of brake is best for their vehicle.
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What Are Jake Brakes and Engine Brakes?
As a professional driver, I often encounter situations where I need to slow down or stop my vehicle quickly. One way to do this is to use the brakes, but this can lead to excessive wear and tear and even brake failure if done too frequently. That’s where engine brakes come in.
Engine brakes are mechanisms that use the engine’s power to slow down the vehicle, reducing the workload on the brakes and increasing their lifespan.
Jake brakes, also known as compression release engine brakes, are a type of engine brake commonly found on diesel engines. When activated, a Jake brake opens the exhaust valves to the cylinders, releasing the compressed gas and slowing the vehicle. This process is repeated multiple times per second, creating a distinctive “chattering” sound that can be heard from a distance.
Engine brakes, on the other hand, are a more general term that encompasses all types of braking mechanisms that use the engine’s power to slow down the vehicle. This can include Jake brakes, exhaust brakes, and other types of engine retarders.
One of the main benefits of engine brakes is that they can help reduce brake fade, a phenomenon where the brakes lose their effectiveness due to overheating. By using the engine’s power to slow down the vehicle, the brakes are less likely to overheat and more likely to remain effective even during long periods of heavy use.
Engine brakes are mechanisms that use the engine’s power to slow down the vehicle, reducing the workload on the brakes and increasing their lifespan. Jake brakes are a specific type of engine brake that use a compression release mechanism to slow down the vehicle and create a distinctive “chattering” sound.
How Do Jake Brakes and Engine Brakes Work?
I know how important it is to have good control over my vehicle’s speed. That’s why I rely on engine brakes, also known as compression brakes or retarders, to help me slow down.
Two common types of engine brakes are Jake brakes and exhaust brakes.
Jake Brakes
Jake brakes, also known as compression release engine brakes, are named after the company that invented them, Jacobs Vehicle Systems. When activated, the Jake brake opens the exhaust valves to the cylinders right before the compression stroke ends, releasing the compressed gas trapped in the cylinders. This gas release causes the engine to slow down, providing a retarding effect.
The Jake brake works by restricting the airflow when you take your foot off the accelerator. This restriction causes compressed air to build up in the engine, which artificially slows down the engine’s cylinders. The Jake brake is most commonly used in heavy-duty diesel engines, such as those found in trucks and buses.
Engine Brakes
Exhaust brakes, also known as exhaust retarders, are another type of engine brake. They work by restricting the exhaust flow out of the engine, which creates back pressure in the cylinders. This back pressure slows down the engine, providing a retarding effect.
Exhaust brakes are less common than Jake brakes and are typically used in gasoline engines or smaller diesel engines. They are also less effective than Jake brakes, as they only slow down the engine when the vehicle is in motion.
Differences Between Jake Brakes and Engine Brakes
While both Jake brakes and exhaust brakes are types of engine brakes, they work differently. Jake brakes use the engine’s compression to slow down the vehicle, while exhaust brakes use back pressure in the exhaust system.
Jake brakes are typically more effective than exhaust brakes, but they are also more expensive to install.
In summary, Jake brakes and exhaust brakes are both types of engine brakes that help slow down vehicles. Jake brakes use the engine’s compression to slow down the vehicle, while exhaust brakes use back pressure in the exhaust system. While Jake brakes are more effective, they are also more expensive to install.
Pros and Cons of Jake Brakes and Engine Brakes
Pros
When it comes to Jake brakes, they are known for their powerful braking force, which makes them a popular choice for heavy trucks. They work by opening the exhaust valve at the top of the compression stroke, providing gas compression resistance that slows down the rear wheels of the vehicle.
This is more efficient than exhaust brakes, providing better braking efficiency and fuel efficiency. Jake brakes also have mechanisms to disable the braking upon use of the clutch or throttle, making them more versatile in usage.
On the other hand, engine brakes are more common in gasoline engines and are often an OEM option. They work by reducing the power of the engine by decreasing the throttle position, which reduces the amount of fuel and air that enters the engine cylinders.
This results in deceleration, which slows down the vehicle. Engine brakes are known for their wear and tear reduction, as they put less stress on the friction brakes.
Cons
One of the biggest cons of Jake brakes is their loud noise. They are notorious for producing a loud noise that can be disruptive to the surrounding area.
In fact, some cities have banned the usage of Jake brakes due to the loud noise they produce. Jake brakes can be costly to install and maintain due to their powerful nature.
Engine brakes, on the other hand, are not as powerful as Jake brakes and may not be suitable for heavy trucks. They also rely on the computer to control the throttle position, which can be problematic in automatic transmissions. Furthermore, engine brakes may not be as effective on uphill roads, as they rely on the engine’s compression stroke to slow down the vehicle.
Both Jake brakes and engine brakes have their pros and cons. Jake brakes are more powerful and efficient but can be loud and costly. Engine brakes are less powerful but can be more versatile and reduce wear and tear on friction brakes. It ultimately depends on the specific needs and usage of the vehicle.
Jake Brakes vs Engine Brakes: Which One to Choose?
When it comes to choosing between Jake Brakes and Engine Brakes, there are several factors that need to be considered. Both of these braking systems are designed to slow down a heavy vehicle like a truck or a bus, but they work in different ways.
Jake Brakes, also known as Compression Release Engine Brakes, are a type of engine braking system that opens the exhaust valves to the cylinders to release compressed gas and slow down the vehicle. They are commonly used in diesel engines and are known for their powerful braking force, which makes them ideal for use in heavy trucks.
Engine Brakes, on the other hand, are a type of exhaust braking system that uses the engine’s own compression to slow down the vehicle. They work by restricting the flow of exhaust gases, which creates a back pressure that slows down the engine and the vehicle. Engine Brakes are commonly used in gasoline engines and are known for their fuel efficiency and low wear and tear.
When it comes to choosing between these two braking systems, the decision ultimately depends on the specific needs of the driver or the fleet. Here are some factors to consider:
- Power: Jake Brakes are known for their powerful braking force, which makes them ideal for use in heavy trucks. Engine Brakes, on the other hand, are not as powerful but are more fuel-efficient and have lower wear and tear.
- Noise: Jake Brakes are known for their loud noise, which can be a problem in residential areas. Engine Brakes are generally quieter and more suitable for use in urban areas.
- Performance: Jake Brakes are known for their excellent performance on downhill slopes, while Engine Brakes are better suited for uphill slopes.
- Cost: Jake Brakes are generally more expensive than Engine Brakes, but they are also more powerful and have a longer lifespan.
- Usage: Jake Brakes are banned in some areas due to their loud noise, while Engine Brakes are generally allowed everywhere.
- OEM Option: Some manufacturers offer Jake Brakes as an OEM option, while others only offer Engine Brakes.
The choice between Jake Brakes and Engine Brakes ultimately depends on the specific needs of the driver or the fleet. While Jake Brakes are more powerful and have a longer lifespan, Engine Brakes are more fuel-efficient and have lower wear and tear.
It is important to consider factors such as power, noise, performance, cost, usage, and OEM options when making a decision.
