On this episode of Tech Talk with TMC, host Robert Braswell welcomes Brian Screeton, Manager of Technical Training Services at Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, for an in-depth Tech Talk with TMC discussion focused on air brake system maintenance in cold weather.

As winter conditions put added stress on pneumatic systems, Robert and Brian break down the facts and falsehoods of air system maintenance, including common misconceptions that can actually increase moisture and contamination. The conversation explains why clean, dry air is critical for safe braking, how air dryers and desiccant cartridges really work, and why draining air tanks every day may do more harm than good.

Brian shares expert insight on:

Proper air tank draining intervals based on duty cycle

How over-draining can overload air dryers and reduce effectiveness

Why airline antifreeze is not a preventive solution and can damage valves and seals

Cold-weather startup tips to prevent frozen air systems

Identifying contamination from water, oil, rust, and improper repairs

Best practices for glad hands, seals, tractor protection valves, and fittings

Why excessive Teflon tape and sealant can cause internal valve failures

The discussion also highlights the importance of application-specific maintenance, working with vendors to spec the right air dryer, and following TMC Recommended Practices to extend component life and improve safety.

This episode is essential listening for drivers, owner-operators, technicians, and fleet maintenance professionals who want to avoid winter breakdowns and keep air brake systems operating safely and reliably.

Learn more about the Technology & Maintenance Council at

https://tmc.trucking.org

Learn more about Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems at

https://www.bendix.com

Thanks for tuning in! You can catch our shows and segments anytime on your favorite podcast app or listen live on YouTube, Facebook, iHeart, and RadioNemo.com!

This week, Robert Braswell, Executive Director of the American Trucking Associations’ Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) is joined by Fred Kelley, America’s R&D Director for the Prysmian Group (Prestonite brand), for another in-depth edition of Tech Talk with TMC.

The conversation focuses on electrical wiring, maintenance, and repair standards in today’s trucks, including why proper wire selection matters, how SAE and TMC standards were developed, and what fleets, technicians, and owner-operators need to know to avoid electrical failures and roadside breakdowns—especially during harsh winter conditions.

Robert and Fred break down the differences between battery cables and primary wiring, explain why cross-linked insulation is critical, and discuss recommended SAE wire types such as SGX, SGR, GXL, TXL, and SXL. They also cover voltage drop, corrosion, preventive maintenance, and why using improper wiring during repairs can lead to major reliability and safety issues.

The episode wraps with a look ahead at the TMC 2026 Annual Meeting in Nashville, including upcoming task force discussions related to ABS power supply and electrical recommended practices.

Listeners also had the opportunity to call in with questions during this live Tech Talk with TMC discussion, making this episode a must-listen for technicians, fleet managers, and anyone responsible for keeping trucks on the road.

Learn more about the Technology & Maintenance Council at

https://tmc.trucking.org

This week on Tech Talk with TMC, co-host Robert Braswell, Executive Director of ATA’s Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC), joins Mark Zachos to discuss practical strategies to protect yourself and your fleet from cybersecurity threats. Robert shares insights on the latest trends in trucking technology, maintenance management, and cyber risks affecting the industry today.

Listeners call in with their questions, and Robert provides guidance on best practices, including how to secure vehicle systems, protect company data, and respond to potential cyberattacks. This episode is essential for anyone in trucking, fleet management, or transportation who wants to stay ahead of evolving cybersecurity challenges.

Learn more about TMC at https://tmc.trucking.org/

See upcoming Tech Talk topics: https://tmc.trucking.org/blog/tech-ta...

Thanks for tuning in! You can catch our shows and segments anytime on your favorite podcast app or listen live on YouTube, Facebook, iHeart, and RadioNemo.com!