Volvo 780 Owner's Manual page 53

1987 Volvo 780
The pedal stroke increases slightly and the pedal feels softer and extra pressure is required for normal
braking.
If the red light comes on: stop immediately, open the hood and check brake fluid level (see "Brake
fluid, power steering" section).
Fluid level below MIN mark: do not drive. Tow car to shop for check/repair of brake system.
Fluid level between MIN and MAX mark: proceed with extreme caution to a Volvo dealer for an
inspection of the brake system.
If brake power-assist does not function
The power assist to the brakes functions only when the engine is running. When the car is moving
without the engine running the brake pedal pressure required to stop the car is increased by 3 - 4 times.
The brake pedal feels stiff and hard.
Moisture on brake discs and brake pads affects braking.
Driving in rain and slush or passing through an automatic car wash can cause water to collect on the
brake discs and pads. This will cause a delay in braking effect when the pedal is depressed. To avoid
such a delay when the brakes are needed, depress the pedal occasionally when driving through rain,
slush, etc.
This will remove the water from the brakes. Check that brake application feels normal! This should also
be done after washing or starting in very damp weather.
Severe strain on the brake system
The brakes will be subject to severe strain when driving in mountains or hilly areas. The speed is usually
low which means that the cooling of the brakes is less efficient than when driving on level roads.
To reduce the strain on the brakes it is advisable not to use the brakes excessively.
Instead, shift into a lower gear, position 2 or, in some cases, 1.
Do not forget that, if you are towing a trailer, the brakes will be subjected to greater load than is normal.
Breaking-in parking brake (hand brake)
To obtain best parking brake performance, the brake linings should be broken-in. Stop 5-7 times from 30
mph (50) km/h), transmission in neutral, applying the parking brake with the release button pressed in
during the stop.
The force must not lock the rear wheels. If this happens, release the brake enough to let the wheels
rotate. Drive a mile between each stop to cool the brakes. Check for proper parking brake operation.
WARNING!
The brake lights are not illuminated when applying the parking brake. To warn traffic from behind it
is therefore advisable to depress the brake pedal slightly to illuminate the brake lights.
pg. 54 Trailer hauling
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