ASE A5 Prep: Electronic Brake Distribution (Video)
Anti-lock brake systems (ABS) and the HCU are replacing proportioning, combination and other valves to change the braking forces in the front and rear. This is called Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and it can dynamically change to proportioning to take into account if the vehicle is turning or is loaded. The system can also use EBD to perform a “soft stop.” This routine is performed when a vehicle is slowing at low speeds and the brake force is varied in the front and rear so the vehicle’s attitude is controlled and weight is evenly transferred. This means a flatter and more stable stop.
What DOT Really Means: Brake Hose Inspection And Replacement
Brake hoses are the most government-regulated components on a vehicle. Anyone making brake assemblies must be registered with the Department of Transportation (DOT). All aftermarket hose, fittings and complete hoses must conform to FMVSS 106 and SAE J1401. These tests are demanding and often exceed what a vehicle will see in the real world.
Drum Brake Service: Single-Anchor, Floating Shoe Designs
Although four-wheel disc brakes currently dominate the import brake service market, millions of drum brakes are serviced each day in independent import shops. Thanks to their age, many drum brakes present problems related not only to normal wear, but also to extended age and mileage.
AMSOIL Expands Signature Series Family To Include Automatic Transmission Fluid
AMSOIL INC. has re-positioned two of its synthetic automatic transmission fluids to be included in the company’s Signature Series family. The new designation reflects the premium quality of AMSOIL Multi-Vehicle Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid and AMSOIL Fuel-Efficient Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, said the company.
ABS/ESC Brake Solenoid Diagnostics
The ABS computer or HCU is a node on a high-speed vehicle bus. This means that the information can be typically accessed through the OBDII DLC. The ABS controller/modulator is the heart of any ABS or ESC system. The modulator gets the brake pressure from the master cylinder. Inside are the valves and solenoids that control the pressures to the wheel. During normal operation, the pressure from the master cylinder goes through the HCU unaltered.
WIX Filters Sponsors Ryan Newman In NASCAR Whelen Modified Series
WIX Filters, a member of the Affinia Group family of brands, will sponsor Ryan Newman’s No. 7 Chevrolet at two NASCAR Whelen Modified Series races in 2013.
Tech Feature: Diagnosing Diesel Injector Problems
Injectors can fail in ways other than becoming just worn out or tired. Diesel guru Bob McDonald discusses common and not so common injector fails.
Brake Job On 2006-Current Cadillac DTS
The 2006-current Cadillac DTS is the largest sedan that General Motors offers. The DTS incorporates the K-platform as denoted by the 4th letter in the VIN. It is built on the same line as the Buick Lucerne. The two vehicles share many brake components, but option packaging is different for the Lucerne.
Centric Parts Releases 2013 Brake Systems Catalog
Centric Parts has begun shipping its Centric Parts 2013 Brake Systems Catalog. The updated catalog (BC2013) details Centric’s complete range of brake components, which includes rotors, drums, pads, shoes, calipers, hydraulics, sensor wires, wheel cylinders, hubs, seals and bearings covering vehicles from model years 2000 through 2013.
Brake Job: 2000-2007 Ford Focus
The 2000-2007 Ford Focus is based on the Ford global C1 platform, shared with the European Ford Focus and Volvo S40. Nothing is really groundbreaking about the brake system. However, not paying attention to the details can end in a post brake job comeback.