Which braking technique should be used when the vehicle lacks anti-lock brakes?

Which braking technique should be used when the vehicle lacks anti-lock brakes?

• A. Progressive braking
• B. Braking rapidly with a hard press
• C. Pumping the brakes lightly
• D. Threshold braking to avoid wheel lock

Answer: (D)

When you don’t have anti-lock brakes, the goal is to brake as hard as possible without locking the wheels. This threshold braking uses the maximum tire grip you have, giving you the shortest stopping distance while still allowing you to steer. If you feel the wheels starting to lock or the steering effort increases, ease off slightly and then reapply with the same firm pressure to maintain control. Braking rapidly with a hard press can lock the wheels and remove steering control. Pumping the brakes is an older method that can reduce braking efficiency. Progressive braking dampens the braking force and doesn’t use the full available grip. Threshold braking, by contrast, risks no lock while still maximizing braking force.

When you don’t have anti-lock brakes, the goal is to brake as hard as possible without locking the wheels. This threshold braking uses the maximum tire grip you have, giving you the shortest stopping distance while still allowing you to steer. If you feel the wheels starting to lock or the steering effort increases, ease off slightly and then reapply with the same firm pressure to maintain control.

Braking rapidly with a hard press can lock the wheels and remove steering control. Pumping the brakes is an older method that can reduce braking efficiency. Progressive braking dampens the braking force and doesn’t use the full available grip. Threshold braking, by contrast, risks no lock while still maximizing braking force.