What is a jake brake?

Answer by  Cali (518)

The Jacobs Brake is a compression mechanism insstalled on diesels. It opens exhaust valves in the cylinders which slows the vehicle. These devices are also known as compression release engine breaks. May cause loud chattering or a "machine-gun" noise.

Answer by  Boldorff22 (6)

This is the common name for an exhaust brake or engine retarder. They use back pressure from the engine to slow the vehicle down. They are used in combination with the brake pedal. They are effective but should not be used in icy or slick conditions when towing a trailer.

Answer by  cody (1331)

a jake brake is a brake on big trucks like 18 wheelers its a engine brake used to slow them down because there so big that just normal brakes cant stop them in time if they have to stop suddenly. the engine brake is kind of loud also if you see a big truck making a weird nose thats it

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

A "Jake brake" is just another name for a compression brake used on large diesel engines. They are similar to an exhaust brake. It is basically a mechanism the shut the engine down by closing the valves and buildup pressure in the cylinder to create engine braking.