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Originally Posted by JSH
The feedback that comes back to me is that some fleet managers prefer drums to discs because disc brakes work too well. They don't overheat nearly as fast as drum brakes so drivers use the brakes more instead of relying so heavily on compression braking. The more the driver uses the brakes - the faster they wear out - the more trips to the shop for brake replacements
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Is it any bad at all? A properly trained driver who knows how to operate the truck will make it last longer and even improve fuel economy sometimes. BTW in contrast to an American driver who may be too lazy to engine-braking, a Brazilian would make better use of it and of adaptative cruise control, which may not only require fewer input on the pedals but also lead to overall more efficient driving. Being able to not use the brakes so often gives a clue about the driver's ability/efficiency.
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There are also some severe use conditions like Piotrsko mentioned. Loggers and dump trucks tend to prefer drums for example.
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See why most trucks, and even buses, in Brazil are still fitted with drums? Operating conditions here are often quite harsh.