DAILY BRAKE TEST

Ladies' Mirror, Volume 4, Issue 6, 1 December 1925, Page 56

DAILY BRAKE TEST

; i 'HE brakes should be tested each day. Before going half a block from the garage make a service test by throwing out the clutch and applying the brakes. If possible, select a dry spot for making this test. Under no circumstances should the car be taken farther if the brakes are not operating properly; drive back to the garage and see that the faults are corrected before driving out again. To keep the brakes in good condition : (a) Once in two months remove the rear wheels and wash the brake lining in kerosene. This removes all oil and grease which, if present, takes the “bite” out of the brakes. Never oil brake lining. (b) Brakes squeal when they are glazed or when improperly adjusted. Squealing can often be stopped by removing wheels and roughening the brake lining with a stiff brush. (c) If the brake lining is worn down to the rivets, sink the rivets still farther or have the brakes relined. (d) Wipe off and oil the brake mechanism every five hundred miles or oftener. (e) Make a regular systematic brake inspection a habit. The loss of a cotter pin might lead to a serious accident. When a lock washer is removed don’t put it back; use a new one. Many cars skid, not only because of slippery streets, but also because of unequal division of braking power. Jack up the rear wheels and apply brake far enough so that it is just possible to turn one wheel by

hand. Adjust the brake on the other wheel so the same amount of energy is required to turn that wheel by hand. Test for unequal braking power at least once a month. A O you always apply your brakes properly? (a) When coming to a stop on a straightaway, shut off the throttle and leave the clutch engaged until just before you come to a stop; this method of stopping is especially advisable in wet weather, because it lessens the tendency of the car to skid. It also helps to distribute the braking power equally and assists the action of the brakes. Do not shut off the ignition until after you have stopped; it may be necessary to make a quick start. ( b ) In going down an ordinary hill leave the clutch engaged and close the throttle. This helps cool the engine and also makes it unnecessary to use the brakes. (c) In going down steep hills or when descending ordinary hills with a heavy load, put the gears in intermediate or low speed at the top of the hill and leave the clutch engaged. Shut off the throttle. (d) In making an emergency stop leave the clutch engaged, apply the foot brake and pull the hand brake, but do not “lock the wheels.” Keep the wheels rolling, otherwise there is danger that the car may slide or skid. ( c ) When applying brakes never lock the wheels. If wheels are locked not only does it increase the liability of the car to skid, but it is extremely hard on the tyres.