Gladhand
Gladhands are coupling devices used to connect a tractor’s service and emergency air lines to a semi-trailer or converter dolly. They contain a rubber seal to prevent air from escaping and a screen filter to prevent contaminants from entering the air brake system.
Identification
Gladhands are typically color coded to help avoid incorrect connections.
Blue = Service Line
Red = Emergency Line
Tech Tips
Maintaining gladhands is essential for ensuring the reliability and safety of the air brake system.
- Regular inspections should be conducted to check for signs of wear, corrosion, and damage.
- Rubber seals and screen filters within the gladhands should be inspected frequently and replaced at least once a year or more often based on usage.
- Store gladhands in their designated stowage positions when not in use to prevent contamination from moisture and debris.
- Any loss of tension when coupling and uncoupling gladhands indicates that they need to be replaced.
- Anodized or powder-coated gladhands can provide added protection against corrosion.