When it comes to semi trucks, there are few things more important than their air systems. Semi truck air systems allow for the control of brakes and other components, helping drivers stay safe on the road.
However, drivers need to ensure that their air systems are properly filled with air in order for them to work properly. So, how do you put air in a semi truck?
The first step in filling a semi truck with air is to locate its air tanks. Most semi trucks have two tanks under the frame, one near the driver’s seat and another near the back of the truck. The tank near the driver’s seat is typically labeled as “service” while the tank near the rear is labeled “emergency.” Once you have located these tanks, it’s time to attach an air hose.
Using an appropriate size hose, attach one end to an external compressed-air source such as a shop compressor or an onboard compressor on another semi truck. Then attach the other end to either of your semi truck’s tanks. Make sure that all connections are secure and no leaks are present.
Turn On Air Source
Next, turn on your compressed-air source and check that there is sufficient pressure being generated in both tanks by monitoring gauges attached to each tank or visible from inside of your cab. Once you have verified that there is sufficient pressure being generated, turn off your compressed-air source.
Check Brake System
Finally, check your semi truck’s brake system by pressing lightly on your brake pedal. If your brakes respond appropriately then you have successfully filled your semi truck with enough air pressure needed for its various components to work correctly.
Conclusion:
Filling a semi truck with air can seem like a daunting task for inexperienced drivers; however it doesn’t have to be if you follow these simple steps. Locate both tanks under the frame of your truck and attach an appropriate size hose from an external compressed-air source such as a shop compressor or another semi truck’s onboard compressor.
Then turn on the compressed-air source and check gauges attached or visible from inside of your cab for sufficient pressure being generated before turning off the source. Finally check that your brakes respond appropriately when pressing lightly on brake pedal; if they do then you have successfully filled your semi truck with enough air pressure needed for its various components to work correctly.
