BRAKES
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6.10.3 BRAKE TROUBLE SHOOTING
Before starting to "Brake" trouble shooting,
inspect the vehicle brake hydraulic system and
brake system components. It is strongly
recommended to inspect the following before the
actual road test.
Apply and hold the brakes. Check for brake
fluid leakages at all connections and correct as
necessary.
Repeatedly apply and release the brakes to
observe brake shoe motion. If either brake is
slow to respond investigate for binding and/or
airlock restriction.
Brake fluid level in the reservoir / connector
Brake pads / Brake shoes.
Brake Drum / Disc / Caliper
Brake system for corrosion, chafing and
damage from road stones (Visual Inspection)
Brake lag
Ensure correct tyre pressure and check for tyre
wear.
BRAKE FLUID LEAKS:
Check the master cylinder fluid levels. An
abnormally low level indicates a leak in the
system. In such a case, check the entire brake
system for leakage. The cause should be
corrected and defective parts should be replaced.
Note that a slight drop in the fluid level does result
from normal wear of brake lining.
CONTAMINATED BRAKE FLUID:
Improper brake fluid or water ingress in the fluid
may cause the brake fluid to boil or deterioration
of the rubber components in the hydraulic system.
If the piston cups/piston seals are swollen, then
rubber parts have deteriorated. This deterioration
may also be evidence of swollen wheel cylinder
piston cups on the drum brake wheels.
If deterioration of rubber is evident, disassemble
all hydraulic parts and wash with alcohol. Dry
these parts with compressed air before assembly
to keep alcohol out of the system. Replace all
rubber parts in the system including hoses. Also
when working on the brake mechanisms, cheak
for fluid on the linings. If excessive fluid is found,
replace the linings.
If master cylinder piston seals are satisfactory,
check for leakage or excessive heat conditions. If
condition is not found drain fluid, flush with brake,
refill and bleed the system.
The system must be flushed inferior quality fluid is
found in the system.
ROAD TESTING:
Road test for the brakes shall be taken by the
skilled driver with sufficient experience.
Brakes shall be tested on dry, clean smooth
and reasonably level road which is not
crowded.
Drive the vehicle at low speeds in a safe area.
Test the brakes by making brake applications
with both light and heavy pedal forces at
various speeds to determine if the car stops
evenly and effectively.
If required carry out wheel balancing and
alignment.