When was the manufacturing year after which trucks are equipped with automatic slack adjusters?

The correct answer is 1996 because that is the year when federal regulations in North America mandated that heavy-duty trucks and buses be equipped with automatic slack adjusters as part of their air brake systems. These devices help maintain proper brake adjustment by automatically compensating for wear, ensuring effective braking performance and enhancing safety on the road.

Automatic slack adjusters significantly reduce maintenance tasks associated with manual adjustments, thereby minimizing the risk of human error and increasing the reliability of the brake system. Understanding the timeline of when these technologies were implemented is essential for operators and mechanics who work with air brake systems in trucks, as it influences maintenance schedules, component familiarity, and regulatory compliance.