The brake system is the most important link in the vehicle traffic safety system. It includes a service brake system and a parking brake. Servicing and repairing brake system components requires care and precision. In the absence of the necessary experience, it is better to entrust the performance of these operations to car service specialists.
The service brake system is designed to reduce the speed of the vehicle until it comes to a complete stop and to keep the vehicle from rolling during short stops on a slope. All Corsa C/Meriva models are equipped with a vacuum assisted hydraulic braking system. It includes the main brake cylinder, vacuum brake booster and front wheel disc brakes. Depending on the model, disc or drum brakes are installed on the rear wheels of the car. Drum mechanisms are equipped with wheel brake cylinders.
To increase reliability, the hydraulic drive of the brake mechanisms is divided into 2 circuits that function independently of each other, each of which is connected to the diagonally located wheels of the vehicle. One brake circuit is connected to the calipers of the right front and left rear wheels, the second - to the calipers of the left front and right rear wheels. In case of failure of one brake circuit, the second continues to work in the same mode, providing adequate braking of the car. Failure of any of the circuits leads to a decrease in braking efficiency and is accompanied by the operation of the corresponding warning lamp on the instrument panel (see chapter «Controls and methods of operation»).
Fluid pressure for both circuits is generated in the brake master cylinder (GTZ) when pressing the brake pedal. The GTZ is installed on the assembly of the vacuum brake booster servo, fixed in a niche under the windshield on the bulkhead of the passenger compartment and covered with a lid. On top of the cylinder is a reservoir with a supply of brake fluid. It is common for both the service brake drive and the clutch drive (on corresponding models).
To create the required pressure in the hydraulic path, it is necessary to apply considerable force to the brake pedal. In order to facilitate the control of the brake system, a vacuum booster is used, the principle of which is based on creating an air pressure difference in the booster servo chambers.
On petrol models, pressing the brake pedal opens a one-way valve, and one of the two servo air chambers is connected to the engine's intake air path. Due to the movement of the air flow in the intake tract, a vacuum is created in the servo chamber. In the other chamber of the servo drive, the air pressure is greater and under its influence, the membrane associated with the GTZ rod begins to move and creates the necessary additional force.
On diesel models, a special vacuum pump is used to create a vacuum in the servo chamber. On the Z13DT engine, the pump is mounted on the engine head and driven by the timing camshaft, and on engines with a displacement of 1.7 liters, the vacuum pump is mounted on the generator and driven from its shaft.
Brake pads / shoes with friction linings are the executive component of the brake system - the braking efficiency depends on their condition and the condition of the brake discs / drums. For each car model, taking into account the configuration, the pads of the corresponding brand are designed - the installation of other pads can lead to a change in the vehicle's handling characteristics, a decrease in braking efficiency and, ultimately, to an accident. Some braking tips and tricks are given in Chapter «Controls and methods of operation».
Precautionary measures
Some special precautions should be observed when servicing vehicle brake system components:
- a) Brake fluid is poisonous - do not allow it to enter the body!
- b) Brake fluid is extremely chemically aggressive - in case of accidental contact with eyes and painted surfaces of body panels, immediately wash it off with plenty of running water!
- c) Use only the correct grade of hydraulic fluid to fill the brake system (see chapter 1). Do not use hydraulic fluid that has stood for more than one year or has been stored in a loosely closed container to add to the system;
- d) Friction linings of brake pads/shoes may contain hazardous asbestos. Try not to inhale brake dust, do not blow it off with compressed air. Never use gasoline or petroleum-based solvents to clean brake system components - use only branded cleaners;
- e) Ensure that all required tolerances and tightening torques of fasteners are observed. When servicing components, use only serviceable tools. At the slightest doubt, seek help from specialists. Remember that the proper functioning of the brakes is the key to traffic safety;
- f) At the slightest sign of a malfunction in the functioning of the brake system, the operation of the car should be suspended!
- g) When servicing any part of the system, proceed carefully and methodically, with meticulous cleanliness. If you are unsure of the functionality of the components, replace them as a set for both brakes on each axle. Use only spare parts known by the manufacturer.
Upon completion of maintenance and repair work on the brake systems, the following points must be checked each time:
- Are the brake hoses securely attached?
- Are brake hoses and lines in holders?
- Are the bleed valves tight?
- Is there enough brake fluid in the system?
With the engine running, check the tightness of the service brake system. To do this, press the brake pedal with a force of 200 to 300 N (20-30 kg) and hold for 10 seconds - the brake pedal should not fall or fall.
In conclusion, carry out control braking on the road in the absence of vehicles on it.
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