Braking Techniques While Taxiing

[Jim Meade]

Here is an email exchange I had with George Happ of Matco Mfg., edited a bit for format so it's easier to read but the words have not been changed.

 

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Sirs,

 

Some light sport aircraft with Rotax engines that set the idle rpm at

1700 rpm or more have a fair amount of thrust, so if you are on a long

taxi you are always either pumping or riding the disk brakes.

 

Assuming the brake is appropriately rated and in good condition, is

there a preferred method of operation between continuous light pressure

on the disk brakes versus pumping or occasionally applying the brakes

and then fully releasing the pressure?

 

I looked at your web site and didn't see that question addressed.

Thanks for any comments.

 

Jim Meade

Flight Design CTSW

 

On Sat, 31 Aug 2013 02:18:13 -0500, <tech@matcomfg.com> wrote:

 

Jim,

It is best to brake to low speed and release. Dragging will cause the system to easily transfer heat in to the caliper housing. Also, some wear data suggests the wear rate is better (slower) with the brake and release compared to dragging.

 

The same applies to taxiing in strong wind and using brakes to maintain direction.

 

George R. Happ

MATCO mfg

 

George,

 

Thanks for the info. With the Flight Design I fly the brake and

release procedure won't always be possible, but it is good to know and

I will apply it when I can.

 

Do you mind if I share this info with others, including on the

internet, or would you prefer not?

 

Thanks again,

 

Jim Meade

 

Jim,

Yes I understand how high idle thrust can pose a problem. It is best to slow and release but you also have to control the airplane

 

You are free to share the information as it will be helpful to others as well

 

Thank you

 

George R. Happ

MATCO mfg

 

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Of course, no one would say that this necessarily applies to other brake manufacturers or types of brakes, but I thought it might be of general interest to LSA operators.

 

 

 

[Doug G.]

Thanks Jim for sharing this.

[sandpiper]

I basically do as Matco suggests with little wear to my pads.