Dodge Durango Forum II Archive

Dvoted [NorCal] [99 CPR 5.9 3.55 FT4WD]
dvotedcpr@aol.com

Could you clarify this statement, or perhaps provide links to supporting tests that demonstrate this?

"2. Unless you are on ICE, antilock is NOT the quickest way to stop.  In all other situations (including snow, gravel, rain) is to lock all four wheels."

Are you saying that the shortest stopping distance will generally (other than on ice) be acheived by stomping on the brakes and locking all 4 wheels?

I believe this to be incorrect.  

From hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/crstp.html :

"If the wheels of the car continue to turn while braking, then static friction is operating, while if the wheels are locked and sliding over the road surface, the braking force is a kinetic friction force.   The coefficient of static friction is typically larger than the coefficient of kinetic friction."

Once the tires break loose of the pavement, it is unable to provide as much resistance to motion.  Kind of like pushing a big box, it takes a lot of effort to get it moving, but once it is sliding it is easier to keep moving.

The shortest stopping distance can be acheived by applying the brakes just up to the point that the tires are about to lock up, without actually locking.

Sorry if I've gone a bit overboard with this post.

-john