SEGMENT EDGE-RIGHT HAND 4T9124 - Caterpillar

The Caterpillar compression brake is controlled by the engine control module. Under the proper conditions, the Caterpillar compression brake helps the operator to slow the vehicle on grades, in curves, or during necessary speed reductions. The service brakes may be assisted by the Caterpillar compression brake because the service brakes should not be used continuously on long descending grades. It is important to note that the Caterpillar compression brake is not intended to be used as a replacement for the service brakes.Operation of the Caterpillar Compression Brake
Before descending a long grade or a steep grade, test the compression brake in order to ensure proper operation.
Never exceed a safe control speed.
Do not use the compression brake when the vehicle is attached to two trailers.
Do not use the compression brake when an empty trailer is pulled on wet pavement or slippery pavement. This is particularly important if the vehicle has a single drive axle.
Do not shift gears without using the clutch when the compression brake is turned on. Do not make a double clutch when the compression brake is activated. Power train damage may occur.The compression brake will not operate during the following conditions. The following conditions will temporarily interrupt the operation of the compression brake.
The temperature of the engine coolant is below 70 degrees Celcius.
The engine speed is below 1400 rpm and the vehicle speed is below 15 mph. If low braking speed is desired, choose a transmission gear that will maintain the engine rpm above 1400 rpm.Downhill Operation
On downgrades, do not coast while the clutch pedal is depressed.
Do not coast with the transmission in NEUTRAL.
If no engine power is needed, disengage the cruise control.
Select the correct gear that does not allow the engine speed (rpm) to exceed 2600 RPM.
Use the compression brake in order to control the speed of the vehicle.
Occasionally, when heavy loads or steep grades are encountered, it may be necessary to descend using a gear that is lower than the gear that is used to ascend. Maximum braking power occurs over 2200 rpm. Care should be taken at the top of a hill in order to ensure that the vehicle is in the proper gear for optimum braking.Controls for the Caterpillar Compression Brake
Standard Operator Controls
ON/OFF Switch - This switch activates the system for the compression brake.Progressive Braking Switch - This switch allows various settings for different conditions.LOW Setting - This setting will provide approximately one-third of the total available braking horsepower. This setting is typically used on flat roads when light loads are hauled.MED Setting - This setting will provide approximately two-thirds of the total available braking horsepower. This setting is typically used when the LOW setting is not adequate in order to provide the desired braking horsepower.HIGH Setting - This setting will provide full braking horsepower. This setting is typically used on downhill grades or the setting is used when heavy loads are involved. Use this setting only when there is good traction.In addition to the switch controls that were previously discussed, other switches