Hydraulic System: Description and Operation

Brake System Components:

Hydraulic Schematic (ABS):

The hydraulic brake system includes the following components:
^ Brake master cylinder
^ Brake load sensor proportioning valve
^ Brake hydraulic tubes
^ Front brake hoses
^ Front disc brake calipers
^ Rear wheel cylinders

The hydraulic brake system uses the principles of hydraulic power to apply the front and rear brakes. The brake pedal is connected to the brake master cylinder. When the brake pedal is pushed, a solid column of fluid is pushed from the brake master cylinder to the front disc brake calipers and the rear wheel cylinders.

The front disc brake calipers and rear wheel cylinders are hydraulic actuators in which the hydraulic pressure produced in the brake master cylinder is converted into motion. The front disc brake caliper pistons move out, forcing the brake shoes and linings to contact the front disc brake rotors. The rear wheel cylinder pistons move out, forcing the rear brake shoes and linings to contact the brake drums.

When the brake pedal is released, the pressure in the system is relieved. The front disc brake caliper pistons move in and the rear wheel cylinder pistons move in. The brake shoes and linings return to their unapplied position.

The inboard front brake shoes and linings have wear indicators. When the front brake shoes and linings are worn, the indicator contacts the front disc brake rotor and makes a squealing noise. The noise is a warning that the brakes need service before any damage occurs to the front disc brake rotor.

Double-walled steel brake line extends from the brake master cylinder pressure fittings out toward the wheels. Brake hoses make the final connection between the body-mounted brake tubes and the front disc brake calipers and the rear wheel cylinders.