Brakes and Traction Control: Description and Operation
Brake SystemThe brake system consists of the following components:
^ Fixed brake pedal
^ Front brake calipers
^ Hydraulic control unit (HCU) (part of the ABS)
^ Master cylinder and fluid reservoir
^ Mechanical parking brake system
^ Optional ABS
^ Rear drum brake system
^ Vacuum-assisted power brake booster
The brake pedal is connected to the power brake booster, which is connected to the brake master cylinder. When the brake pedal is pressed, brake fluid is pushed through the doubled-walled steel tubes and flexible hoses to the front disc brake calipers and rear wheel cylinders. The brake fluid enters the brake calipers and wheel cylinders, forcing the caliper pistons, wheel cylinder pistons, brake pads and brake shoes outward against the brake disc and drum friction surfaces slowing or stopping the rotation of the wheels. When the brake pedal is released, brake fluid pressure is relieved, returning the caliper pistons, cylinder pistons, brake pads and brake shoes to the unapplied position.