Bendix Rolls Out a New Trailer Antilock Brake System It Says Sends Diagnostic Data 25 Times Faster
Bendix has introduced a new trailer antilock braking system that the company says can tell a shop a lot more about what is wrong, and tell it faster.
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What is new
Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems introduced the Bendix iTABS X Standard SC, an intelligent trailer antilock braking system (ABS), in a Nov. 11 news release. It replaces the company's TABS-6 Standard trailer ABS. Bendix said iTABS X launched in August through truck and trailer makers and the aftermarket.
Antilock brakes keep wheels from locking up during hard braking. When the trailer ABS has a problem, a warning light comes on.
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How it talks
Many trailer ABS systems send fault signals over the power line, known as power line communication. Bendix says that can signal that a fault exists. The new system adds a controller area network (CAN) connection, a data network used across commercial vehicles.
Bendix says CAN delivers more detailed diagnostic and performance data 25 times faster than power line communication, and can connect with telematics, the systems that send vehicle data to a fleet's office in near real time. The company says that gives maintenance managers more visibility into trailer health. These are the company's claims, and the 25 times faster figure has not been independently verified.
"CAN, when paired with telematics, gives fleets clearer insight into trailer status, so they can respond faster when issues arise and keep equipment moving," said Jon Intagliata, Bendix vice president for Aftermarket and Trailer.
Bendix says the system builds on its trailer ABS layout with two wheel sensors and one modulator, the valve that controls air to the brakes, and follows the J1939 communication standard used across commercial vehicles.
Fitting older trailers
Bendix says the new system is compatible with current trailer ABS applications and will support the switch with aftermarket kits. The portfolio is set to expand in 2027 with iTEBS X Advanced SC, which adds roll stability, a feature that helps prevent rollovers.
Bendix will build iTABS X at its plant in Acuna, Mexico.
More equipment news is in the Big Rigs section.
A question for readers
How many hours have been lost chasing a trailer ABS light that nobody could figure out?
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