Mitch Schneider: Did You Just Say What I Think You Just Said?
I just finished writing a piece for our sister publication, Counterman. This particular article centered on a warranty issue for a defective master cylinder that we purchased and installed just the other day. In and of itself, there shouldn’t be much to write about. But, unfortunately, in this case there was. It turns out this particular master cylinder had been purchased years before by the supplier who got the call. And, again, there shouldn’t be much to write about. After all, it’s not like we’re talking about chicken or fish: something likely to "spoil" over time.
Tech Tip: Diagnosing a Sinking, Low or Spongy Brake Pedal
To diagnose a sinking, low or spongy brake pedal, begin by isolating the master cylinder. Remove the lines from the master cylinder and insert blocking plugs into the ports. Press on the brake pedal. If the pedal is firm and hard, the master cylinder is good. If the pedal still drops, either air is in the unit or it is bypassing internally. Bleed the unit or replace as necessary. Reconnect and bleed the system.
Tech Tip: Brake Maintenance and Inspection
The brake actuating system, consisting of the master cylinder, calipers, hoses and wheel cylinders, experiences wear each time the driver applies the brakes. Some drivers rarely use their brakes and therefore never wear out a set of brake linings. Nevertheless, no matter how little the brakes are used, moisture contamination and rust will eventually cause the brake actuating system to fail.
Tech Tip: Brake Hose May Cause Low Pedal
To diagnose a sinking, low or spongy brake pedal, begin by isolating the master cylinder. Remove the lines from the master cylinder and insert blocking plugs into the ports. Press on the brake pedal. If the pedal is firm and hard, the master cylinder is good. If the pedal still drops, either air is in the unit or it is bypassing internally. Bleed the unit or replace as necessary.
Management: Selling a Complete Brake Job
Brake parts are often sold on a piecemeal basis because customers only want the minimum number of parts needed to fix their brakes. It might be a set of pads for the front brakes, a single rotor or drum, a caliper or wheel cylinder, a brake hose or a master cylinder. The mentality is to fix what’s broken and nothing more.
Toyota Regenerative Braking System
The brake system of a hybrid may have multiple components to perform regenerative braking and pedal simulation.
What Constitutes A Complete Brake Job?
Complete, safe brake jobs are key. This video is part of the Group Training Academy.
Decoding Brake Pull Issues
Addressing brake pulls requires diagnostic dedication. This video is part of the Group Training Academy.
Clutch System Components
By adopting a systematic approach and utilizing quality kits, the longevity and efficiency of the timing system can be maximized, ensuring a smoother-running engine. This video is sponsored by The Group Training Academy.
ZF Expanding SACHS CDC Shocks, TRW Line
ZF Aftermarket also plans to release additional CDC part numbers in Q1 of 2024.
