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The Braking System
Brake System Design
Anti-lock Brakes
You should never pump the
The hydraulic system that operates
the brakes has two separate circuits.
Each circuit works diagonally across
the vehicle (the left-front brake is
connected with the right-rear brake,
etc.). If one circuit should develop a
problem, you will still have braking
at two wheels.
(For some types)
brake pedal; this defeats the
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) helps
to prevent the wheels from locking
purpose of the ABS. Let the ABS
work for you by always keeping firm,
up and skidding during hard braking, steady pressure on the brake pedal
allowing you to retain steering con-
trol.
as you steer away from the hazard.
This is sometimes referred to as
‘‘stomp and steer.’’
When the front tyres skid, you lose
steering control; the vehicle
continues straight ahead even
though you turn the steering wheel.
The ABS helps to prevent lock-up
and helps you retain steering control
by pumping the brakes rapidly; much
faster than a person can do it.
You will feel a pulsation in the brake
pedal when the ABS activates, and
you may hear some noise. This is
normal; it is the ABS rapidly
pumping the brakes.
Front
Activation varies with the amount of
traction your tyres have. On dry pave-
ment, you will need to press on the
brake pedal very hard before you ac-
tivate the ABS. However, you may
feel the ABS activate immediately if
you are trying to stop on snow or ice.
The ABS also balances the front-to-
rear braking distribution according
to vehicle loading.
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261
Driving