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The Hydraulic System Keeps You Stopping Smoothly
Brake Fluid is stored in the Master Cylinder (2). When the brake
pedal is depressed, the pistons in the master cylinder force higher
fluid pressure through the Pressure Differential Switch (3), which
balances braking force between the front and the rear. The increase
in fluid pressure then travels along the steel Brake Lines (4)
and flexible Brake Hose (5) to the front and rear brake systems.
Brake Fluid:
Fluid should be periodically drained and replaced. Old fluid
contains particles which can plug and corrode the brake lines.
Master Cylinder:
This should periodically be checked for leaks and efficiency.
Leakage is sometimes visible from the outside and can also be
detected by a "spongy" pedal action or excessive pedal travel.
Pressure Differential Switch:
This is a combination valve which controls brake fluid pressures.
On some model vehicles, a Metering Valve may be installed to balance
the pressure between the front disc brakes and rear drum brakes
on vehicles with front disc brakes. On some model vehicles, a
Proportioning Valve may be used to reduce the hydraulic force
applied to rear drum brakes during rapid braking, preventing rear
wheel locking and skidding. A Warning Sensor turns the brake warning
light on during a hydraulic brake malfunction. If not working,
this switch should be serviced or replaced.
Brake Lines:
Steel brake lines can become clogged or rusted from inside when
water seeps into the hydraulic system. Damaged lines should be
replaced.
Brake Hose:
Outside surfaces can be damaged by road debris. Cracks can form
from temperature variations and aging. Inner surfaces can become
clogged. Leaks can occur at end fittings. New hoses should be
installed for any of these reasons.
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