Air tanks need to be drained _________.

Air tanks need to be drained for all of the listed reasons:

1. At the end of each day of driving: Draining air tanks at the end of each day of driving is a standard maintenance practice. This helps remove any accumulated moisture, oil, and contaminants from the air tanks, ensuring the integrity and proper functioning of the air brake system.

2. Manually if or when automatic devices fail: Air tanks are equipped with automatic draining devices designed to expel water and contaminants from the system. However, these automatic devices may fail or become ineffective over time. In such cases, manual draining becomes necessary to prevent the build-up of sludge or other contaminants that can clog the brake system.

3. To keep sludge from clogging the brake system: Moisture and contaminants, such as oil, can accumulate in the air tanks over time. If not drained regularly, these substances can form sludge that can clog the brake system. Draining the air tanks helps prevent the build-up of sludge and ensures that clean, dry air is supplied to the brakes.