Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems ABS OPERATORS MANUAL ESP 4/11 - Manual (Page 4)

4
Understanding Bendix ® Antilock Braking
Systems (ABS) For Air Braked Vehicles
What Is ABS?
ABS is an electronic control system that improves vehicle stability and
steerability by preventing wheel lock during braking.
How Does ABS Work?
The ABS system monitors wheel rotation, and if it detects any wheel locking
up, the system automatically reduces the brake pressure at that wheel. If
necessary, the ABS system automatically modulates braking forces at one or
more of the wheel ends. The system maintains lateral stability by preventing
wheel lock during braking.
What Is The Optional ABS Off-Road Mode?
This is an optional ABS feature operated by a dash-mounted switch for use
when operating your vehicle “off-road” on soft surfaces. Below 25 mph
(40.2 kmh), this feature improves ABS performance under off-road operating
conditions. If your vehicle is equipped with this feature, toggle the switch to the
“ABS off-road” position when operating on soft surfaces. Always remember
to turn the ABS off-road feature off when driving on a firm road surface. A
new ignition cycle, or a second depression of the Off-road switch, will turn
this function off and restore normal ABS functionality and (if installed) full ESP
functionality. For more details on optional ATC and ESP features, see pages
6 and 7 of this manual.
WARNING! The ABS Off-Road mode should not be used on normal,
paved road surfaces because vehicle stability and steerability may be
reduced.
The ABS indicator lamp will flash slowly to indicate to the driver
that the ABS off-road mode is engaged.
CAUTION:
When the ABS Off-Road mode is engaged, stability functions are
disabled at speeds below 25 mph (40.2 kmh). The ATC/ESP indicator lamp
will illuminate to indicate that the stability systems are disabled.