Table of Contents
Advertisement
M
AINTENANCE
BRAKES
Always inspect the pedal travel before operating a vehicle to confirm some brake func-
tion is present.
All driving brake tests must be done in a safe location with regard for the safety of all
personnel.
NOTICE: Over time, a subtle loss of performance may take place. It is, therefor, important to establish the
standard with a new vehicle.
Test and service the brake system at the intervals indicated in the SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE CHART on
page 38.
Periodic Brake Test
The Periodic Brake Test must be performed initially and regu-
larly as an evaluation of your vehicle's brake system perfor-
mance. It is a method of identifying a subtle loss of braking
performance over time.
Establish the 'acceptable stopping distance' when your vehicle
is new and the brakes are at their peak of performance. As
your vehicle is used, a subtle loss of braking performance may
be detected, so it is important to establish the standard with a
new vehicle.
Actual stopping distances are influenced by weather condi-
tions, terrain, road surface condition, vehicle weight and
speed. No specific braking distance can be reliably specified,
so it is important to establish a base to test with.
The test is conducted by engaging the park brake instead of
the brake pedal to eliminate different pedal pressures, to
include affects of linkage mis-adjustment and provide a more
accurate test.
NOTICE: You must have enough space to accelerate to
maximum speed before engaging the parking
brake. Use a marker to indicate the predeter-
mined line to engage the parking brake that you
will use for the performance test.
1.
On a dry, level, clean, paved surface, accelerate the vehi-
cle to maximum speed.
2.
Engage the parking brake at the predetermined and
marked line.
3.
Mark the line where the vehicle comes to a complete
stop.
4.
If the vehicle stops in a significantly greater distance than
the established distance in future tests, or pulls to one
side, it should be tested again.
5.
If the vehicle fails the second test, discontinue use until it
can be inspected and determined safe for operation by a
qualified mechanic.
52
Dry, Level, Clean, Paved Surface
Accelerate To
Maximum Speed
Engage
Parking
Brake
Established
Acceptable
Stopping
Distance
Line or Marker
Line or Marker
Unacceptable
distance required
to stop the
vehicle.
Hide quick links:
Advertisement
Table of Contents
