Before Road Test Inspection

The Brake System:

Before Road Test Inspection

Many times a good visual inspection is all that is needed to locate a brake failure. However, to ensure that all parts of a braking system are working properly, a complete inspection should be made.

The best place to start a visual inspection is at the brake pedal. Check to ensure the pedal does not bind and that it operates the linkage correctly. When the pedal is released, spring tension should return it to its released stop position. Check to ensure there is enough free travel in the pedal movement to allow the brakes to completely release when the pedal is released. Check for wear on the pedal bushing. The pedal should move freely but not have any sideways motion. Check the pedal travel for sponginess which would indicate air in the hydraulic system.

Inspect the master cylinder next. Check the fluid level and correct it if necessary. Using the proper tools, check all the mounting bolts to see if they are tight. Check the cylinder for leaks in the housing, around the dust boot, and at all fittings where lines are connected. Ensure the reservoir vent operates properly.

Next, follow the hydraulic line from the master cylinder to the air-hydraulic cylinder. Check for breaks, kinks, and leaking connections. Inspect the air-hydraulic cylinder mounting bolts for tightness and the cylinder for dents. Check for leaks at all connections.

Follow the hydraulic lines from the air-hydraulic cylinder to the tees at the front and rear axles and on to each wheel cylinder. Check all lines for leaks, kinks, and cracks. Ensure the lines are supported properly to the frame or axle. Check each flexible line for leaks and frayed material.

Inspect the backing plate and lower drum area of each wheel for an indication of brake fluid. Leaking wheel cylinders will leave traces of fluid that can often be seen without pulling the wheel and brake drum. This type of leak will soak the brake lining and cause a brake to grab. While at the wheels, check each one for secure lugs and nuts.

Next check the air compressing system. Be sure the compressor is mounted securely and the air breather is clean. Inspect drive belts (where applicable) for proper tightness and condition. Worn, frayed, or glazed belts can cause trouble. Check the condition of all air lines and connections from the compressor to the governor, pressure gage, buzzer system, air tanks, air-hydraulic cylinder, and for tightness at connections. Check the air tanks for secure mounting and condition. Open the petcocks to be sure all moisture has been drained and then close them again.

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Article Pages
1. The Brake System
2. Introduction
3. Principles Of Braking
4. Braking Requirements
5. Factors Controlling Retardation
6. External-Contracting And Internal-Expanding Brakes
7. Brake Types
8. Brake Drum Construction
9. Brake Shoes
10. Rotating And Non-Rotating Units
11. Self-Energizing Action
12. Disc Brake
13. Comparing Disc And Drum Brakes
14. Floating Caliper
15. Fixed Caliper
16. Hydraulic Brakes
17. Master Cylinder
18. Wheel Cylinder
19. Hydraulic Brake System Insepction
20. Before Road Test Inspection
21. Road Test Inspection
22. After Road Test Inspection
23. Air-Hydraulic Brake System
24. Air-Hydraulic Master Cylinder
25. Air-Hydraulic Cylinder
26. Air Compressor
27. Air Governor
28. Air-Hydraulic Brake System Components
29. Trailer Coupling Hoses And Connectors
30. Air-Over Hydraulic Cylinder
31. Operation Of Air-Hydraulic Brakes
32. Air-Hydraulic Brakes Of Large Trucks
33. Trailer Air-Over-Hydraulic Brake Systems
34. Air-Hydraulic Brake System Inspection
35. Before Road Test Inspection
36. Air-Hydraulic Brake System Road Inspection
37. Trouble Shooting Air-Hydraulic Brakes
38. Air-Brake System
39. Air-Brake Quick Release Valve
40. Air-Brake Relay Valve
41. Air-Brake Chamber
42. Air-Brake Slack Adjuster
43. Air-Brake Auxiliary Components
44. Semi-Trailer Air Brake Systems
45. Operation Of Straight Air-Brake System
46. Miscellaneous Air-Brake Components
47. Troubleshooting Straight Air Brake Systems

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