Does anyone know if 64-plate DAF LF’s have retarded brakes? I’m a new driver and haven’t found out where it is. What’s the best way to practise using retarded? Thanks.
Very rare to find a proper Retarder on UK trucks.
Exhaust brakes or engine brakes are sometimes called retarders, but they aren’t.
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Assuming you have an exhauster or engine brakes, they work best in the lowest gear possible. If the system doesn’t select a lower gear do so yourself. Get the rev counter up in the blue.
They are good tools to keep your service brakes cool, especially on long descents.
In adverse conditions remember they only work on the driven wheels, so things can get ‘skittish’.
All the ones I’ve driven have a button on the steering wheel next to cruise control for exhaust brake. It usually kicks in everytime you brake even lightly which isn’t ideal, but its a DAF so you expect it to be stupid.
Personally I never bothered as they aren’t really heavy enough to need an exhaust brake except maybe on steep hills (unlike artics which need them regularly).
Thanks and I obviously meant retarder not retarded!
Is there a button on the floor by the foot pedals ,it could be there ?