Professional Air Brake Maintenance
Reliable truck air brake systems are the backbone of fleet safety and DOT compliance across South Florida. At Southeast Truck Specialist (S.E.T.S.) in Pompano Beach, we provide expert heavy duty air brake repair and maintenance for commercial fleets and owner-operators. Our ASE-certified technicians ensure reliable braking performance while supporting fleet operations throughout Miami-Dade County, Broward County, and Palm Beach County.
Commercial & Fleet Air Brake Service
We provide comprehensive air brake service and heavy duty air brake repair for medium and heavy-duty vehicles. Our ASE-certified team ensures your commercial fleet stays road-ready and compliant. Trust Southeast Truck Specialist for precise air brake adjustment and reliable maintenance. Our expert air brake repair services include:
Air Brake Diagnostics
Advanced diagnostics are crucial for identifying hidden issues before they cause failure. We use state-of-the-art technology to test pressure build-up, governor cut-out, and overall system health. Our technicians pinpoint faults in valves, lines, or sensors, ensuring accurate repairs. This proactive approach minimizes downtime and prevents costly roadside breakdowns for your heavy-duty trucks.
Air Brake System Repair
When your braking system fails, you need expert air brake system repair immediately. We handle everything from replacing worn linings and drums to rebuilding complex valve assemblies. Our team works on all major truck brands, restoring full braking power to meet OEM specifications. We ensure every component functions seamlessly to keep your drivers safe and your fleet compliant with strict regulations.
Leak Detection and Repair
Air leaks are a leading cause of DOT violations and brake failure. Our comprehensive leak detection process involves audible checks and soap spray testing on all hoses, fittings, and tanks. We systematically isolate the source of pressure loss, whether it is a cracked line or a faulty seal. Quick repair of these leaks restores system integrity, ensures faster recharge times, and helps guarantee a passing score during inspections.
Brake Chamber Replacement
Faulty brake chambers compromise your ability to stop effectively. We inspect for corrosion, dented housings, or broken return springs that indicate failure. Our technicians perform expert brake chamber replacement using high-quality parts matched to your vehicle's specs. We ensure the pushrod length and size are correct for optimal force application, restoring the responsiveness and reliability of your truck's braking.
Slack Adjuster Service
Properly functioning slack adjusters are vital for maintaining correct brake shoe-to-drum clearance. We provide professional slack adjuster service, including lubrication, inspection, and replacement of automatic or manual adjusters. If your brakes are dragging or not holding, we diagnose the adjuster mechanism. Keeping them in top condition ensures consistent braking force and reduces uneven wear on your brake linings.
Air Compressor & Air Dryer Inspection
The air compressor is the heart of your brake system, while the dryer prevents moisture damage. We perform detailed inspections to check compressor build rates and governor settings. We also service air dryers by replacing desiccant cartridges to keep lines free of water and oil. This maintenance prevents freeze-ups in winter and protects valves from corrosion, extending the entire life of your truck air brake system.
Common Air Brake System Issues
Watch for these symptoms indicating you need air brake system repair:
- Air Pressure Drop: Pressure falls too quickly when the engine is off.
- Audible Leaks: Loud hissing noises from lines or valves.
- Spongy Pedal: Brakes feel soft or unresponsive during application.
- Pulling: The truck drifts to one side when braking.
- Warning Lights: Low pressure warnings or buzzers stay on.
- Slow Build-Up: The compressor takes too long to build pressure.
If you suspect an issue with your truck air brake system, don't wait! Schedule an inspection with S.E.T.S. right away to minimize downtime and ensure compliance!
Why Truck Owners Choose S.E.T.S.
Fast Turnaround
We work diligently to get the job right the first time, ensuring your vehicle gets back on the road quickly
Expert Team
Our ASE-certified technicians have over 120 years of combined experience in heavy truck repair
Insurance Direct Repair
We handle claims directly with major insurance agencies, ensuring a hassle-free process and faster approval
Commitment to Quality
We focus on consistent workmanship and professional service to support reliable vehicle operation
Other Services We Offer
Beyond basic air brake maintenance, we offer a full range of fleet solutions to keep you moving:
- DOT Truck Inspection: Comprehensive checks to ensure legal compliance.
- Truck Preventive Maintenance: Routine care to maximize vehicle lifespan.
- Brake Repair: Expert service for standard hydraulic systems.
- Truck Diagnostics: Advanced scanning for engine and transmission faults.
- Truck Electrical Repair: Troubleshooting lighting and wiring issues.
- Suspension Repair: Heavy-duty alignment and leaf spring services.
These services support a coordinated approach to maintaining reliable and compliant fleet operations.
FAQ
What is included in professional air brake service for heavy duty trucks?
Our comprehensive service covers complete system diagnostics, leak detection tests, and precise air brake adjustment. We inspect all critical components including compressors, dryers, chambers, lines, shoes, and drums. We also test governor cut-in/cut-out pressures to ensure your system meets all safety regulations and operates at peak efficiency for long hauls.
How often should air brake systems be inspected on fleet trucks?
While drivers must perform daily pre-trip inspections, professional air brake maintenance is vital. We recommend a full system check during every PM service, typically every 10,000 to 20,000 miles. For trucks in severe stop-and-go conditions, more frequent inspections are necessary to identify wear on shoes and drums before they compromise safety.
Is air brake service required for DOT truck inspections?
Yes, it is absolutely critical. A fully functional air brake system is a primary checklist item for annual DOT inspections. Any audible leaks, out-of-adjustment brakes, or faulty warning signals will result in immediate failure. Regular service ensures you pass inspection the first time, avoiding costly fines and keeping your fleet legally compliant.
What are common signs of air brake system problems on commercial trucks?
Watch for distinct warning signs like loud hissing air leaks, the compressor failing to build pressure quickly, or a low-pressure warning buzzer that stays on. Uneven braking, the vehicle pulling to one side, or a spongy pedal feel are also red flags. If you notice frequent needs for air brake adjustment, it often indicates underlying mechanical issues.
Do you provide air brake service for trailers and fleet vehicles?
Yes, we specialize in fleet maintenance. We provide heavy duty air brake repair for all vehicle types, including semi-trucks, box trucks, trailers, and emergency vehicles. Whether you manage a logistics fleet or construction equipment, our Pompano Beach facility handles complex brake systems for all major commercial manufacturers and fleet accounts.
Can air brake issues cause a truck to fail a DOT inspection?
Absolutely. Air brake defects are among the most common reasons for DOT violations. Issues like air leaks, mismatched chamber sizes, or brakes out of adjustment are considered "Out of Service" criteria. This means your truck cannot legally move until repairs are made. Proactive maintenance is the only way to avoid this disruption to your business operations.
Contact Us Today
At Southeast Truck Specialist, we are committed to helping you maintain a reliable and efficient fleet. Trust us with your truck body repair needs and experience the difference our expertise makes. Give us a call at 954-970-3651 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
