Do you check your tyres and brakes regularly? When your brakes are in good working order and properly maintained, they have the capacity to effectively stop a fully loaded vehicle. Filling your vehicle for a trip increases the weight – this impacts several components.
1. Friction: Brakes operate on the principle of friction. When you apply the brakes, the brake pads (or shoes) press against the brake discs (or drums) or the wheels themselves, creating friction. This friction converts the kinetic energy of the moving vehicle into heat energy, ultimately slowing down and stopping the vehicle. Do you remember the braking distances in your driver theory test?
- Hydraulic System: Most modern vehicles use a hydraulic braking system. When you press the brake pedal, it activates a piston in the master cylinder, which in turn pushes brake fluid through the brake lines. This hydraulic force is transmitted to the brake callipers (or wheel cylinders) located at each wheel. The callipers then apply pressure to the brake pads, pressing them against the brake discs. The force exerted on the brake pads generates friction, decelerating the vehicle.
- Brake Components: To effectively stop a fully loaded vehicle, it is crucial to ensure that various brake components are in good condition:
a. Brake Pads: The brake pads are made of friction material and are designed to withstand the heat and pressure generated during braking. Regular inspection and replacement of worn-out brake pads are essential to maintain optimal braking performance.
b. Brake Discs (Rotors) or Drums: The brake discs or drums provide the surface against which the brake pads create friction. These components need to be in good condition, free from excessive wear, scoring, or warping, to ensure effective braking.
c. Brake Fluid: The hydraulic braking system relies on the brake fluid to transmit the force from the brake pedal to the wheels. Proper brake fluid level and quality are critical for the system’s operation. Regular checks and maintenance of the brake fluid, including flushing and replacing it at recommended intervals, are necessary.
d. Brake Callipers and Wheel Cylinders: These components house pistons that push the brake pads against the brake discs or drums. They need to be in good working order, free from leaks or sticking, to ensure consistent and equal application of the brakes.
- Brake Power and Mechanical Advantage: The braking system is designed to provide sufficient stopping power to halt a fully loaded vehicle. The mechanical advantage is achieved through the brake pedal leverage, which amplifies the force you apply to the pedal. This force is then multiplied by the brake system’s mechanical components, such as the master cylinder and brake boosters, to deliver a higher force to the brakes.
By regularly checking and maintaining your brakes, you ensure that all the components are functioning correctly, providing the necessary friction, and stopping power to bring your fully loaded vehicle to a halt effectively. It is important to consult your vehicle’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for brake maintenance and inspection intervals to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Terrain Tamers fortified pads, in combination with dimpled and slotted discs, are aftermarket brake upgrades that we endorse. As replacement parts go, Terrain Tamer’s tag line is ‘parts that will get you home’.
Here’s how these components work:
- Fortified Pads: Fortified pads typically refer to brake pads that are formulated with higher-performance friction materials. These pads are designed to offer improved heat resistance, fade resistance, and overall braking performance compared to standard brake pads. The upgraded formulation aims to provide increased stopping power and a more consistent braking experience.
- Dimpled Discs (Drilled): Dimpled brake discs (rotors) feature small indentations or holes on the surface of the disc. The purpose of these dimples is to aid in the dissipation of heat and the removal of brake dust and debris. By allowing air circulation and creating channels for gas and debris to escape, dimpled discs are claimed to help maintain better contact between the brake pad and disc, reducing the risk of brake fade and improving overall braking performance.
- Slotted Discs: Slotted brake discs have narrow, shallow slots machined into the surface of the disc. These slots serve multiple functions. Firstly, they help to expel gases, water, and debris that can accumulate between the brake pad and disc, thus maintaining consistent braking performance. Secondly, the slots can help prevent the brake pad from developing a glaze, which can reduce braking efficiency. Additionally, the edges of the slots can create a bite effect, improving initial brake response.
The benefits of using Terrain Tamers fortified pads combined with dimpled and slotted discs include increased stopping power, improved heat dissipation, reduced brake fade, and potentially better overall braking performance.
Email sales@westcoastoffroad.co.uk with your vehicle details to get a quote for parts and fitting.
It is important to note that the effectiveness of brake upgrades can vary depending on factors such as vehicle type, driving conditions, and individual driving habits. If you are considering upgrading your brakes, it is recommended to consult with a qualified automotive professional or refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure compatibility and proper installation.
