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Master
Cylinder
The master cylinder is the heart of the brake
system, which contains a reservoir for brake fluid.
The master cylinder, located on the firewall and
connected to the brake pedal, should be checked
periodically for contaminants and to ensure the
proper fluid level.
Brake Lines & Hoses
Steel brake-tubing and rubber brake hoses carry the
brake fluid from the master cylinder. Rust and
constant exposure to road grime, dirt, salt and
other elements can lead to leaks. Any damaged lines
should be replaced immediately.
Calipers & Wheel Cylinders
As you depress your brake pedal, fluid enters into
the calipers and wheel cylinders. All calipers and
wheel cylinders contain fluid-activated pistons that
push the brake shoes and pads against the drums or
rotors to slow the vehicle down. If a brake fluid
leak is present, the vehicle could experience
unreliable stopping, damage to new brake shoes or
partial brake system failure.
Your
brakes consist of two systems:
1. Hydraulic Components
Brake Pads & Shoes
When you
press on your brake pedal, the pads or shoes come in
contact with the disc rotor or brake drum, which
slows your vehicle to a complete stop. They should
be checked periodically for cracks, uneven or
excessive wear.
Disc Rotors & Brake Drums
These
components are the surfaces that your brake pads and
shoes press against to stop your vehicle. Rotors and
drums should be checked for heat marks, cracks and
deep scoring.
Parking Brake
The
parking brake system, commonly referred to as the
“emergency brake,” is available should you
experience a complete hydraulic brake system
failure. These cables connect directly to your rear
wheels and need no fluids or valves to apply
pressure to stop your wheels. These cables need
periodic adjustment for dependable use.
2. Friction Materials
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Inspect the hydraulic systems for leaks, fluid
contamination, caliper and wheel cylinder
performance
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Inspect the disc pads and brake shoes and
replace with lifetime parts on most vehicles
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Measure and inspect disc rotors and brake drums
and resurface or replace as necessary
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Inspect parking brake system and adjust as
needed
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Road
test vehicle to ensure peak braking performance
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