Automobile Hydraulic System service is reasonably uncomplicated, but it is important to the vehicle's secure operation.
Brake Fluid Inspection
The master cylinder is frequently situated under the hood and near the fire wall on the driver's side. Remove the cover and check the gasket, or diaphragm. Inspect the cover for harm or plugged vent holes. Clean the vent holes, if vital.
Check the brake fluid level in the master cylinder. A cast-iron reservoir is typically filled to inside 1/4 inch of the leading. A plastic reservoir might have fluid level mars. Do not overfill a reservoir. If fluid must be added, a leak in all probability has developed or the shoes and/or pads are worn. Check the method carefully to find the leak.
To check for contaminated fluid, location a smaller amount of brake fluid in a clear glass jar. If the fluid is dirty or separates into layers, it is contaminated. Contaminated fluid need to be replaced.
Contaminated brake fluid can damage rubber parts and cause leaks. When replacing contaminated brake fluid, it is required to flush and refill the brake method with new fluid. Usually use fluid with a DOT rating of 3 or greater. Adhere to manufacturer's recommendations.
Check the master cylinder for dampness and leaks around the body fittings, in particular at the rear. A leak exactly where it is mounted to the fire wall or power brake unit indicate a defective rear piston seal. The master cylinder ought to be rebuilt or replaced.
Brake Line Inspection Check all tubing, hoses, and connections from under the hood to the wheels for leaks and harm. Wheels and tires need to also be inspected for signs of brake fluid leaks. Check all hoses for flexibility, bulges, and cracks. Check parking brake linkage, cable and connections for harm and wear. Replace parts exactly where crucial.
Brake Pedal Inspection Depress and release the brake pedal many times (engine running for power brakes). Check for friction and noise. Pedal movement must be smooth, with no squeaks from the pedal or brakes. The pedal should certainly return promptly when it is released.
When operating the engine, be confident the transmission lever is in neutral or park. Be sure the location is adequately ventilated for the exhaust to escape.
Apply heavy foot pressure to the brake pedal (engine running for power brakes). Check for a spongy pedal and pedal reserve. Spongy pedal action is springy. Pedal action really should really feel trim. Pedal reserve is the distance between the brake pedal and the floor following the pedal has been depressed completely. The pedal will need to not go lower than 1 or two inches above the floor.
With the engine off, hold light foot pressure on the pedal for about 15 seconds. There really should be no pedal movement in the course of this time. Pedal movement indicated a leak. Repeat the procedure working with heavy pedal pressure (engine running for power brakes).
If there is pedal movement, but the fluid level is not low, the master cylinder has internal leakage. It have to be rebuilt or replaced. If the fluid level is low, there is an external leak somewhere in the brake method. The leak need to be repaired.
Depress the pedal and check for suitable stop light operation.
To check power brake operation, depress and release the pedal several occasions even though the engine is stopped. This eliminates vacuum from the method. Hold the brake down with moderate foot pressure and start off the engine. IF the power unit is operating adequately, the brake pedal moves downward when the engine is began.
