Performance Characteristics

WHEEL/TIRE SIZE AND INPUT SIGNALS
Antilock system operation depends on accurate signals from the rear wheel speed sensor. Ideally, the vehicle's wheels and tires should all be the same size and type to ensure accurate signals and satisfactory operation.

RWAL AND LOW VEHICLE SPEED
The Rear Wheel Antilock (RWAL) braking system will revert to normal braking and automatically turn off if the vehicle is moving less than a few mph. The lower limit at which RWAL is cancelled may be different depending on tire and wheel diameters. Wheel lock-up may be noticed at the very end of an antilock stop and is considered normal.

RWAL Hydraulic Circuit:

DISTRIBUTION OF BRAKING EFFECTS
The RWAL system controls hydraulic pressure to both rear wheels simultaneously, not each one independently. If one rear wheel starts to decelerate too rapidly, the RWAL system affects the hydraulic pressure to both rear brakes.





DIRECTIONAL STABILITY
Since the RWAL system operates on the rear wheels only, it is possible to lock the front wheels of the vehicle during a high deceleration stop. In this event, the vehicle will be stable, but the driver will be unable to alter the direction of the vehicle with the steering wheel.

STOPPING DISTANCE
The RWAL brake system limits wheel slip to approximately 20%. This provides for maximum brake effectiveness. Wheel slip means how well the tires grip the road surface. With light or no braking there is no wheel slip. With the wheels locked (not rotating) during a panic stop, there is 100% wheel slip. To obtain the shortest stopping distance and the greatest control over the vehicle during heavy braking, approximately 20% wheel slip is most efficient, under most conditions.

VEHICLE RESPONSE IN ANTILOCK MODE
During antilock braking, the RWAL valve cycles rapidly in response to Controller Antilock Brake (CAB) inputs. The driver may experience a pulsing sensation in the brake pedal and vehicle as the valves modulate brake fluid pressure as needed. Brake pedal and vehicle pulsation during an antilock stop should be considered as normal.