Auto Gossip

Press, Volume CXVI, Issue 34046, 9 January 1976, Page 5

Auto Gossip

(By

A.J. Petre)

There must be fewmechanical failures quite a- frightening as brake failure — pussib’v with the exception . f steering failure or losing a wheel. But there is no doubt that brake failure is more likely, and according to tin firms and organisations which have made surveys in various countries from time to time, it is likely that a surprisingly high percentage of the • ars on the road have some sort of brake fault. Luckily most of these faults are relatively minor, although thev are still potentially very dangerous. ’’Split” braking systems — with separate hydrallic circuits for front and rear wheels — are now compulsory on new cars in several countries New Zealand is not among them, and there is at least one model of new car on sale here which has a split system in its country ot origin. but m its New Zea-land-assembled form has the cheaper but rather less comforting single system Maybe we should hav< regulation that says cats sold here must have the same safetv systems thev do m theii own coun tries — at least where such things as brakes steering, and other such basic items are concerned As tat as the ordinary motorist is conceined ht>

best protection against brake failure is regular maintenance — it is as simple as that. The brake fluid should be replaced at least every is months. Only clean fluid should be put in the system; t ud contaminated by even small amounts of mineral oil will rot the rubber seals and lead to f uul leak- and brake failure All exposed brake pipes, and al! flexible hoses and all unions should be inspected regularly for any signs of leaks, chafing or damage Most important iv . anv unusual braking behaviour or brake-pedal “teel should be investigated immediately . The brakes aie » ■ n< - thing that most of us think of very rarely they give us such faithful service we tend to lake them tor granted I hat can be tai-ii. Next time vou brake firmly for a corner or a hazard, ask yourself how vou would foe! if the brake pedal suddenly went to th 11 or.