ArvinMeritor says its new Meritor Severe Service Q Plus heavy-duty brake system is for vehicles that operate in harsh or rugged environments. It’s designed to extend service life and improve asset utilization in applications like construction, refuse collection, firefighting, off-road, and other severe-use situations.

The SSQ Plus system consists of larger, more robust brakes along with upgraded bushings, seals and hardware. Fleet testing on 30 refuse vehicles, over a period of 26 months, indicated time between brake relines could increase from 2.3 to 13 months, a potential increase of over 500 percent.

The SSQ Plus package will be available as an original equipment option on new vehicles and for aftermarket
applications. Two OEM truck manufacturers already have committed to the system and will make it available later in 2006.

In 2002, the company launched its high-performance Q Plus air drum brake to provide a cost-effective alternative in achieving shorter stopping distances. Feedback from fleets has been positive, says ArvinMeritor.

The results are said to show improved performance and extended life with no reports of adverse effects such as brake pull or noise.