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The Wheel Cylinder: Function, Components, and Importance of Checking MOT History

 

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The wheel cylinder is an essential component of a drum brake system. Its function is to convert hydraulic pressure into mechanical force, which in turn causes the brake shoes to press against the drum and slow down or stop the vehicle. In this article, we will discuss the function and components of the wheel cylinder in more detail, and explore how check MOT history of a vehicle can help ensure that the wheel cylinder is working correctly.

Function of the Wheel Cylinder

The wheel cylinder is a small hydraulic device located at the top of each wheel. When the brake pedal is pressed, brake fluid is forced from the master cylinder to the wheel cylinder via the brake lines. This hydraulic pressure causes the pistons inside the wheel cylinder to move outward, which in turn pushes the brake shoes against the drum. The friction between the brake shoes and drum creates a stopping force that slows down or stops the vehicle.

Components of the Wheel Cylinder

The wheel cylinder consists of several key components:

1.      Piston: The piston is the primary component of the wheel cylinder. It is a cylindrical component that moves outward when hydraulic pressure is applied to it. The movement of the piston causes the brake shoes to press against the drum and create the necessary stopping force.

2.      Seal: The seal is a rubber component that sits between the piston and the cylinder bore. It prevents brake fluid from leaking out of the wheel cylinder and ensures that the hydraulic pressure is maintained.

3.      Spring: The spring is a component that returns the piston to its original position when the brake pedal is released. This ensures that the brake shoes are not constantly in contact with the drum, which would cause unnecessary wear.

4.      Bleeder Screw: The bleeder screw is a small valve that allows air to be released from the wheel cylinder. This ensures that there is no air in the brake lines, which can cause a spongy brake pedal feel.

Checking the MOT History

Check MOT status of a vehicle is an essential step in ensuring that the wheel cylinder is working correctly. The MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is an annual test that all vehicles over three years old must pass to ensure that they meet minimum safety and environmental standards.

During the MOT test, the brake system is inspected to ensure that it is working correctly. This includes checking the condition of the brake pads, brake discs, brake drums, and wheel cylinders. If any of these components are worn or damaged, the vehicle will fail the MOT test.

Checking the MOT history of a vehicle can help identify any issues with the wheel cylinder that may have been missed during previous inspections. The MOT history will show any advisories or failures related to the brake system, which can help identify potential issues with the wheel cylinder.

If the MOT history shows that the vehicle has previously failed an MOT due to a problem with the wheel cylinder, it is essential to have the issue resolved before driving the vehicle again. A faulty wheel cylinder can cause the brakes to fail, which can be extremely dangerous and potentially life-threatening.

Conclusion

The wheel cylinder is an essential component of a drum brake system. Its function is to convert hydraulic pressure into mechanical force, which in turn causes the brake shoes to press against the drum and slow down or stop the vehicle. The components of the wheel cylinder include the piston, seal, spring, and bleeder screw.

Checking the MOT history of a vehicle is an essential step in ensuring that the wheel cylinder is working correctly. The MOT test includes an inspection of the brake system, which can help identify any issues with the wheel cylinder. If the MOT history shows that the vehicle has previously failed an MOT due to a problem with the wheel cylinder, it is essential to have the issue resolved before driving the vehicle again.

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