With the rapid economic development in China, the vehicle ownership rate has been increasing year by year, leading to frequent traffic accidents and illegal parking. In such situations, tow trucks come in handy. Tow trucks can clear accident and illegally parked vehicles and participate in emergency rescues when needed. However, like other vehicles, tow trucks can also encounter various issues, such as brake failure. Where does the brake failure originate? Here are some tips from the Special Vehicle Network.
Immediate Actions When Brakes Fail
When brake failure occurs, the first step is to take appropriate measures to stop the vehicle safely. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Stay Calm and Downshift:
Keep calm and gradually downshift to use the engine’s resistance to slow the vehicle. Use the handbrake gently to avoid locking the wheels, which could cause skidding.
2. Use Emergency Braking:
If downshifting and the handbrake are insufficient, carefully steer to a safe area. If necessary, use the vehicle’s emergency brake system, if equipped.
3. Find a Safe Stop:
Look for a soft, safe area to steer the vehicle, such as grass or gravel, to help slow down the vehicle naturally.
Checking for Brake Fluid Leakage
After stopping the vehicle safely, check for brake fluid leakage. If the brake fluid is insufficient, it needs to be replenished. If there are leaks, locate the leaking parts and repair them promptly. In an emergency, you can temporarily use alcohol or high-proof liquor as a substitute for brake fluid. However, this is only a stopgap measure, and the braking ability will be weak. Drive slowly and cautiously, and get to a repair station as soon as possible to thoroughly clean the master cylinder, wheel cylinders, and lines, and refill with the specified brake fluid.
Inspecting the Brake Hose
Locate the master cylinder below the brake fluid reservoir and check the brake hose from the master cylinder to the wheel cylinders for leaks. If a leak is found, wrap the hose tightly with electrical tape using an overlapping method. Then, use a strong, thin rope to wrap two tightly wound layers over the taped area, apply lubricant, and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, it can be used temporarily until proper repairs can be made.
Addressing Leaking Wheel Cylinders
If the wheel cylinder is leaking, brake fluid will be visible on the ground inside the engine wheels. In this case, make a gasket from a toothpaste tube or copper/iron sheet to block the oil pipe at the connection of the wheel cylinder hose and tighten the nut. This temporary fix can help you reach a repair station.
Bleeding Air from the Brake System
Air in the brake system can also cause brake failure. The air needs to be bled from the system as follows:
1. Connect a Hose to the Bleed Screw:
Connect one end of a hose to the bleed screw on the wheel cylinder and place the other end into an empty container.
2. Pump the Brake Pedal:
Continuously pump the brake pedal until it rises and then hold it down.
3. Loosen the Bleed Screw:
Loosen the bleed screw to allow the brake fluid and air to flow into the container.
4. Tighten the Bleed Screw:
Tighten the bleed screw and release the brake pedal. Repeat the process until only brake fluid is expelled. During this process, constantly monitor the brake fluid level and add more as needed.
Additional Tips for Brake Maintenance
1. Regular Inspections:
Regularly inspect your tow truck‘s brake system, including the brake fluid level, hoses, and wheel cylinders, to catch potential issues before they become severe.
2. Scheduled Maintenance:
Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for brake fluid replacement and system checks to ensure optimal braking performance.
3. Professional Help:
If you are unsure about any aspect of brake maintenance or repair, seek professional assistance to ensure the safety and reliability of your tow truck.
By staying vigilant and performing regular maintenance, you can reduce the risk of brake failure and ensure that your tow truck remains safe and reliable on the road.
