Diesel Exhaust Brake Systems Explained

A Semi-Truck Driving on the Highway.

Many large, diesel-powered vehicles such as tractor trailers, heavy equipment, buses, RVs, and tow trucks use supplemental braking systems (such as diesel exhaust brakes or compression “jake” brakes) in addition to traditional wheel brakes. This is because large, heavy vehicles are much more difficult to slow down and stop once they pick up momentum, and […]

How Do Air Brakes Work? 

A Man Using the Air Brake in His Vehicle.

Tractor trailers, buses, and other large diesel-powered vehicles often transport big, heavy loads – so it’s important for everyone’s safety that these vehicles can stop when they need to. That’s where air brakes come in. Air brakes have huge brake drums to effectively stop a diesel rig hauling thousands of pounds, and they run on […]

Truck Driving Tips for Winter 

A Semi-Truck in a Snowstorm on an Icy Road.

Winter weather can pose a big challenge for professional truck drivers. Driving a big rig can be especially dangerous in snow and ice – all that weight can pick up momentum that is nearly impossible to stop quickly if you lose control. Be sure to remember the following safe driving tips this winter, and remember, […]

Truck Drivers; The People Driving (Literally) Our Economy Forward

image of tractor trailer

It’s safe to say that when it comes to driving the U.S. economy, few industries have had as great an impact as the commercial truck driving industry. It’s also an industry whose importance, not to mention the importance of the nearly 3.5 million professional truck drivers across the nation – is often, surprisingly overlooked. This […]

Becoming a Commercial Truck Driver After Military

students in automotive repair class

There are a number of career options that military personnel may choose to pursue after their service is complete. Commercial truck driving is particularly suitable for former service members for a variety of reasons. Surprising? Maybe. But consider a few parallels between the two and some of the benefits that military personnel bring to the […]

How J-Tech Serves Military Veterans

students in automotive repair class

The military is made up of much more than generals, soldiers, and artillery. A multi-dimensional world that not only keeps our country safe, but it’s also a training ground for some of the best automotive, aircraft and diesel equipment mechanics the nation has to offer.  The truth is, no matter what field your military training […]

Let’s Work a Little Flexibility into that Schedule

worker with tools

There may have been a time when a student’s sole focus was on school… but let’s face it—times change. People work, raise kids, juggle family responsibilities, and have plenty of other obligations that keep them busy. So why do so many schools ignore that? Luckily, at J-Tech, we get it. And even better, we make […]

Engines vs. Motors

cross section of car engine

When it comes to the mechanics of, well auto mechanics; the discussion about whether a car has an engine or a motor, has been widely debated. In truth, even Webster’s Dictionary does not provide full clarity in this regard and defines the two in a similar, albeit not exact way. Engine: A machine for converting […]

— Diagnosing a Bad Coolant Temperature Sensor

A large part of automotive repair is first diagnosing a problem. Fortunately, today’s technological advancements offer faster, easier, and more efficient ways to do this. In this Google Glass video, through application, board demonstration, and visual aids, Keith Littleton shows you how to diagnose a bad coolant temperature sensor. The first step is to place […]

— Truck Driving Time Management Tips

There’s a sense of peace that comes from driving. You may not always experience it, but when you do, it’s palpable. Perhaps it’s the vast expanse of open road around you. Or maybe it’s the warm feeling you get when you realize your landscape consists of rolling hills and not the fluorescent glow of a […]