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.
Comments
Post a Comment