Podcast
Questions and Answers
The brake wheel cylinder helps the brake shoes apply pressure to the inside of the ______.
The brake wheel cylinder helps the brake shoes apply pressure to the inside of the ______.
drum
The brake wheel cylinder is made from ______ on the outer cover.
The brake wheel cylinder is made from ______ on the outer cover.
steel
The internal components of the brake wheel cylinder are made from ______ seals.
The internal components of the brake wheel cylinder are made from ______ seals.
rubber
When you press the brake pedal, the ______ fills the wheel cylinders with fluid.
When you press the brake pedal, the ______ fills the wheel cylinders with fluid.
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A bad wheel cylinder can lead to poor brake ______.
A bad wheel cylinder can lead to poor brake ______.
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If the brake pedal feels mushy or sinks to the vehicle ______, it may indicate a faulty wheel cylinder.
If the brake pedal feels mushy or sinks to the vehicle ______, it may indicate a faulty wheel cylinder.
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Your vehicle’s wheel cylinders are filled with brake ______ and connected to the master cylinder.
Your vehicle’s wheel cylinders are filled with brake ______ and connected to the master cylinder.
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If you notice a brake fluid leak near a rear ______, it could indicate a problem with the wheel cylinder.
If you notice a brake fluid leak near a rear ______, it could indicate a problem with the wheel cylinder.
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Wheel cylinders play a pivotal role in drum brake systems by applying hydraulic pressure to the brake ______.
Wheel cylinders play a pivotal role in drum brake systems by applying hydraulic pressure to the brake ______.
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When the driver presses the ______ pedal, the movement is transmitted to the brake servo.
When the driver presses the ______ pedal, the movement is transmitted to the brake servo.
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A failing wheel cylinder can lead to reduced braking ______, compromising the ability to stop effectively.
A failing wheel cylinder can lead to reduced braking ______, compromising the ability to stop effectively.
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A worn-out or leaking wheel cylinder can result in inconsistent braking performance and longer stopping ______.
A worn-out or leaking wheel cylinder can result in inconsistent braking performance and longer stopping ______.
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The brake booster increases the ______ of the driver even more.
The brake booster increases the ______ of the driver even more.
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In the braking system, hydraulic ______ is present in the brake main center.
In the braking system, hydraulic ______ is present in the brake main center.
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Timely replacement of wheel cylinders can prevent more extensive damage and costly ______.
Timely replacement of wheel cylinders can prevent more extensive damage and costly ______.
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A leaking wheel cylinder can lead to loss of brake ______, impairing the braking system.
A leaking wheel cylinder can lead to loss of brake ______, impairing the braking system.
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Disc brakes have a brake ______ that is pushed by pressurized hydraulic fluid.
Disc brakes have a brake ______ that is pushed by pressurized hydraulic fluid.
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In many jurisdictions, vehicles must pass safety inspections that include brake system ______.
In many jurisdictions, vehicles must pass safety inspections that include brake system ______.
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Brake pads rub against the ______ to create friction that slows down the wheel.
Brake pads rub against the ______ to create friction that slows down the wheel.
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The drum brake mechanism is generally used on the rear wheels of ______ vehicles.
The drum brake mechanism is generally used on the rear wheels of ______ vehicles.
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A new wheel cylinder ensures that the braking force is evenly distributed to both sides of the brake ______.
A new wheel cylinder ensures that the braking force is evenly distributed to both sides of the brake ______.
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The wheel cylinder piston seal and dust ______ are made of rubber.
The wheel cylinder piston seal and dust ______ are made of rubber.
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Brake fluid must withstand high ______ and provide consistent performance.
Brake fluid must withstand high ______ and provide consistent performance.
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The brake pad also contains the ______ mechanism.
The brake pad also contains the ______ mechanism.
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The brakes are an essential safety feature on a car, and when a problem occurs with the brake ______, it should be replaced immediately.
The brakes are an essential safety feature on a car, and when a problem occurs with the brake ______, it should be replaced immediately.
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During the brake bleeding process, it is important to keep the brake fluid level at the 'Maximum' mark on the ______.
During the brake bleeding process, it is important to keep the brake fluid level at the 'Maximum' mark on the ______.
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The drum brake system must work harmoniously to efficiently apply pressure to the wheel ______.
The drum brake system must work harmoniously to efficiently apply pressure to the wheel ______.
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Modern vehicles often use highly evolved and efficient anti-lock braking systems, commonly applied through ______ brake components.
Modern vehicles often use highly evolved and efficient anti-lock braking systems, commonly applied through ______ brake components.
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To remove brake fluid spills, it is recommended to spray the hubs with a garden ______ or pour clean water over them.
To remove brake fluid spills, it is recommended to spray the hubs with a garden ______ or pour clean water over them.
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Automotive brakes are responsible for converting kinetic energy into ______ through friction.
Automotive brakes are responsible for converting kinetic energy into ______ through friction.
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The primary function of the brake system is to slow down or to ______ the vehicle.
The primary function of the brake system is to slow down or to ______ the vehicle.
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In order to verify that the brakes work as expected, it is essential to test-drive the vehicle in a ______ environment.
In order to verify that the brakes work as expected, it is essential to test-drive the vehicle in a ______ environment.
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Traditional drum brake systems are still commonly used on the rear ______ of many vehicles.
Traditional drum brake systems are still commonly used on the rear ______ of many vehicles.
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The braking system is a balanced set of mechanical and ______ devices.
The braking system is a balanced set of mechanical and ______ devices.
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When the brakes are applied, rough surface brake pads or brake ______ are pressed against moving parts.
When the brakes are applied, rough surface brake pads or brake ______ are pressed against moving parts.
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Several ______ can arise during the brake bleeding process that may hinder effective bleeding.
Several ______ can arise during the brake bleeding process that may hinder effective bleeding.
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Static friction holds the vehicle in place when it comes to a ______.
Static friction holds the vehicle in place when it comes to a ______.
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The process of braking converts kinetic energy into ______ energy.
The process of braking converts kinetic energy into ______ energy.
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The amount of resistance to movement depends on the type of material in contact and the texture of the ______ surfaces.
The amount of resistance to movement depends on the type of material in contact and the texture of the ______ surfaces.
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Braking is the process of converting the motion energy of the vehicle into ______ energy generated by friction.
Braking is the process of converting the motion energy of the vehicle into ______ energy generated by friction.
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The ______ is the mechanical device that transfers all power from the engine into the transmission of a vehicle.
The ______ is the mechanical device that transfers all power from the engine into the transmission of a vehicle.
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Suspension systems must support both road holding/handling and ______, which are at odds with each other.
Suspension systems must support both road holding/handling and ______, which are at odds with each other.
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The ______ connects a vehicle to its wheels and allows relative motion between the two.
The ______ connects a vehicle to its wheels and allows relative motion between the two.
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The ______ is located between the engine flywheel and the transmission.
The ______ is located between the engine flywheel and the transmission.
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The design of front and rear ______ of a car may be different.
The design of front and rear ______ of a car may be different.
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The ultimate purpose of the suspension is to keep the road wheel in contact with the ______ surface.
The ultimate purpose of the suspension is to keep the road wheel in contact with the ______ surface.
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Automobiles were initially developed as self-propelled versions of ______ vehicles.
Automobiles were initially developed as self-propelled versions of ______ vehicles.
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Maximize the friction between the tires and ______ surface during acceleration, cruising, and braking.
Maximize the friction between the tires and ______ surface during acceleration, cruising, and braking.
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Study Notes
Brakes
- Automotive brakes convert kinetic energy to heat through friction, slowing or stopping the vehicle.
- Understanding brake function, components, and types is crucial for vehicle safety, performance, and maintenance efficiency.
- Brakes are a mechanical device that inhibits motion by absorbing energy from a moving system.
- They are used to slow or stop a vehicle, wheel, axle, etc., and prevent motion, primarily through friction.
- Brake functions include slowing and stopping vehicles, controlling vehicles going downhill on slopes, and enabling smooth, safe travel in traffic.
Brake Function
- Brakes slow down or stop the vehicle as required.
- Brakes control the vehicle when rolling down a slope.
- Brakes control the movement of vehicles in heavy traffic flows.
Brake System
- The braking system is a mechanical and/or hydraulic device that slows down vehicles.
- The transmission accelerates the vehicle and the suspension relates to smooth driving.
- The system converts kinetic energy into heat energy through friction.
- Brake pads or shoes push against the vehicle's rotating parts (disks or drums) to slow and stop the vehicle.
Principles of Braking
- Braking converts kinetic energy to heat energy through friction.
- When the driver presses the brake pedal, this action is transmitted to the brake servo using a push rod.
- This lever action amplifies the force, which transmits through the brake booster to the piston in the brake center.
- Hydraulic brake oil is used in the brake main center to pressurise hydraulic fluid.
- The fluid transmits pressure through hydraulic pipes and hoses to the brake cylinders in the wheels and the pistons in the calipers.
- The driver's pedal input is amplified by the servo, generating further pressure.
- The pistons in the cylinders apply pressure to the brake pads, slowing the vehicle.
Disc Brakes
- Disc brakes contain a brake caliper with a piston that moves a brake pad against the disc.
- Pressurized hydraulic fluid pushes the piston towards the disc.
- The disc is fixed to the wheel center and is slowed/stopped via friction from the brake pad against the disc.
- Drum brakes use a wheel cylinder to push brake shoes against a drum causing friction and slowing the vehicle.
Brake Systems and Their Functions
- Disc Brake Mechanism: This is where braking occurs, using hydraulic fluid from the brake main center to push the brake pads against the brake disc.
- Drum Brake Mechanism: Hydraulic fluid sent from the brake main center to the brake cylinder located on the brake plate pushes the brake shoes against the drum, creating friction and slowing the vehicle down. The brake pad often contains the handbrake mechanism.
Brake Fluid
- A specially formulated hydraulic fluid transfers pressure from the master cylinder to calipers and cylinders.
- It must withstand high temperatures and ensure consistent performance in varying conditions.
Brake Pads and Brake Shoes
- Brake Pads: Found in disc brake systems; used in disc brakes, often made of composite or ceramic friction material pressed against the brake rotor.
- Brake Shoes: Used in drum brakes, curved metal plates lined with friction material pressed against the brake drum to create friction for stopping the vehicle.
Brake Calipers (Disc Brakes) or Wheel Cylinders (Drum Brakes):
- Brake Calipers: Found in disc brake systems; contain pistons that squeeze the brake pads against the brake rotor causing friction and slowing the vehicle.
- Wheel Cylinders: Found in drum brake systems; wheel cylinders use hydraulic pressure to push brake shoes against the brake drum, causing friction and slowing the vehicle.
Brake Pedal
- The brake pedal is a lever that transmits force to the brake servo, boosting this force by 5 times.
Brake Servo (Hydrovac(Westinghouse))
- Brake Servo increases pushing force from the brake pedal.
- The pressure is transmitted to the brake main center, and the brake booster vacuum increases the pushing force.
Brake Main Cylinder
- The brake main center is located in front of the brake booster.
- The brake booster converting thrust force into hydraulic pressure.
Brake Fluid Box (Reservoir)
- The brake fluid hydraulic box is located above the brake main cylinder.
- The box stores the brake hydraulic oil which is essential for the brake system.
Brake Limiter (Brake Pressure Proportioner Valve)
- A brake limiter is used in vehicles without ABS and directs 70% of braking pressure to the front wheels and 30% to rear wheels. This is to account for increased vehicle weight on front wheels during braking.
Steps on How to Replace Drum Brakes
- Step 1: Wear an asbestos respirator.
- Step 2: Remove the hubcap and loosen the lug nuts. Block front wheels using wheel chocks. Jack up the vehicle and stabilize using jack stands, avoiding a jack alone. Remove nuts and remove tire.
- Step 3: Spray the hub of the wheel with a penetrating oil such as PB Blaster.
- Step 4: Grab the brake drum by the edges and pull it off. Use the brake adjuster to loosen the brake enough to remove the drum.
- Step 5: Remove any screws holding the drum.
- Step 6: Inspect the drum. If scored replace or reface. Take photos of the components before disassembling.
- Step 7: Place mechanism in a container and spray with brake cleaner to prevent asbestos dust from being airborne.
- Step 8: Compare the new brake shoes with the old ones. Match hole locations and ensure widths are the same.
- Step 9: Dismantle the brake by removing the shoe return springs, parking brake lever, retaining pins, and separating the shoes from the wheel cylinder pins.
- Step 10: Rebuild the new brake by cleaning and lubricating backing plates with anti-seize. Screw the self adjuster back in (check thread direction). Place self adjuster on the new shoes and spread tops to tighten springs. Install shoes and retaining springs. Attach shoes to wheel cylinder pins. Reattach parking brake lever and return springs. Adjust brakes to fit the brake drum using the brake adjustment tool.
- Step 11: Check new brakes with the earlier photo. If different start over.
- Step 12: Put it all back together: Slide the new or resurfaced drum over the wheel studs. Install lock screws to the drum if necessary. Adjust brakes through the drum or backing plate until slight drag is felt. Reinstall the tire. Check brake adjustment and readjust as needed. Remove the jack stand. Lower the jack. Torque the lug nuts and reinstall the hub cover. Repeat on the other side, followed by a road test to confirm proper braking function.
Clutch
- A clutch is a mechanical device transferring engine power to the transmission.
- It's crucial for smooth gear shifting.
- The clutch sits between the engine flywheel and the transmission.
Flywheel
- A flywheel efficiently stores rotational energy (kinetic energy), proportional to its rotational speed squared and mass.
- It resists changes in rotational speed.
Pilot Bearing
- The pilot bearing/bushing supports and centers the transmission input shaft and clutch disc.
- It allows the flywheel to maintain engine RPM while the input shaft slows down and stops.
Clutch Disk
- The clutch disk is a part of the manual transmission system.
- It transfers power from the engine to the transmission.
Pressure Plate
- The pressure plate assembly is secured to the flywheel and clamps the clutch disc against the flywheel to transfer engine power to the transmission. In disengagement, the pressure plate lifts from the flywheel, enabling gear shifting.
Release Bearing
- The release bearing is between the clutch pressure plate and the transmission's release mechanism.
- It transfers force to the clutch plate, using thrust ball bearings.
Clutch Fork and Connecting Linkage
- The clutch fork and connecting linkage convert clutch pedal movement into the throw out bearing's movement.
- This allows pressure plate springs to push against the clutch causing engagement with the flywheel.
Bell Housing (or Bellhousing)
- A colloquial term for the transmission portion that covers the flywheel and clutch assembly.
Clutch Master Cylinder
- A hydraulically operated clutch component found on vehicles with manual transmissions.
- Acts as the pump and pushes fluid through to the clutch slave cylinder for disengagement of the clutch when the pedal is depressed.
Clutch Slave Cylinder
- Works with the clutch master cylinder to disengage the clutch.
- Receives pressure from the master cylinder and pushes a rod or lever to disengage the clutch.
Suspension System
- Suspension connects the vehicle to its wheels and permits relative movement.
- It balances road holding and ride quality, ensuring the wheel is in constant contact with the road.
- This system protects the vehicle and its contents from damage and wear.
Components of the Suspension System
- Suspension Springs: Link wheels/car body, providing ride comfort and stability under various road conditions.
- Leaf Spring: Made from steel that's layered for a reinforced bow-like shape attached to axle and chassis. It provides support for additional vehicle weight.
- Torsion Spring: Uses a metal bar (torsion bar) attached to vehicle and axle/spindle. Twisting of the bar produces resistance to vertical wheel movement.
- Shock Absorber/Damper: Dampens vertical motion/shock impulses (converting kinetic energy into heat), to smooth movement.
- Sway Bar: A U-shaped bar connected to front wheels; limits body roll during vehicle turns.
- Differential: Gear train with three shafts, allowing the vehicle to keep going in curves and bends.
- Tire: Provides traction and cushioning in contact with the road.
- Rim/Mags: The outer edge of the wheel, holding the tire.
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Description
Test your knowledge on brake system components, specifically focusing on the role and functionality of the wheel cylinder in drum brake systems. This quiz covers essential topics such as materials, hydraulic pressure, and signs of malfunction. Improve your understanding of automotive braking systems with these questions.
