How a TruTurn® Brake Drum Can Prevent Unexpected Downtime

Brake-Related Issues: A Top Reason for Downtime

Back in 2007, the "Large Truck Crash Causation Study" by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration found that brake-related issues led to 29% of semi-truck accidents. That may have been 14 years ago, but accidents and unexpected downtime due to braking issues remain high today.

Seasoned truckers know that even if your brakes work fine during a pre-trip inspection, that doesn't mean all of the components of your brake system are operating at peak performance. And the best way to start your haul with confidence is to trust the parts you've got on your truck or fleet – including your brake drums.

Signs of a Bad Brake Drum

Brake drums tend to fall into the "set it and forget it" category because once you've installed your brake drums, chances are you're not going to be looking at them again until something goes wrong. And that something could be:

• Unusual brake pedal feel. If your brake drum is worn to the point where it's causing vibrations, you may be able to feel that in your brake pedal. A shuddering or pulsating may also be felt.


• Loose parking brake. When a brake drum is worn out, you may notice your vehicle sliding a few inches after your parking brake is engaged. This problem could also be a sign of a brake cable that needs adjusting, but it's worth noting and getting checked out either way.


• A scraping noise when the brake is pressed. If you're hearing a scraping or scratching sound when you press down on the brake, either your brake drum is excessively worn or your brake shoes need to be looked at.

As with all heavy duty truck parts, drum brakes aren't designed to last forever, but you should outfit your truck or fleet with drums that will last. Investing in top-notch drum brake technology will not only save you from unexpected downtime, but it can also help ensure the safety of your vehicle, the driver, and other motorists on the road.

How a ConMet TruTurn® Brake Drum Can Make the Difference

It's a common misconception that all brake drums are created equally. Innovations in the industry have created modern brake drum technology that are designed to withstand the needs of every hard-working application – including the TruTurn® brake drum by Consolidated Metco (ConMet).

The TruTurn® brake drum is different by design for a few different reasons:

• Precision-machining inside and out
• Improved drum strength, eliminating the need for weld-on weights and balance cuts
• Better thermal expansion for reduced brake pulsing
• Superior heat transfer to keep the drum and lining cool
• Extended durability through lower temperature rises and improved brake performance

For applications that require a lighter brake drum, ConMet has also introduced the TruTurn Lite™. Featuring the same "turned-to-balance" process that makes the TruTurn® run smoother, cooler, and longer, the TruTurn Lite™ is also manufactured to be as much as 10% lighter than standard brake drums.

How ConMet creates the TruTurn® brake drum:

Your Heavy-Duty Destination for Truck Brake Replacement Parts

If it's time to rethink your strategy for what brake drums and brake components you're putting on your vehicle, we're here to help fulfill all of your trucking needs with our haul of heavy-duty everything from ConMet and more of the industry's top brands.

Log in or create an account today to take your brake drum game to the next level.