7 Step Air Brake Test PDF – Tips and Guides
Seeking for 7 Step Air Brake Test PDF? If you have ever wondered how to inspect air brakes, this blog post is for you. We will go over the 7 steps of a basic air brake test so that you can feel confident the next time you need to do one. Let’s get started!
Anytime you’re considering working on air brakes, it’s important to first complete a thorough 7-step air brake test. This will help ensure that the brakes are functioning properly and will avoid any potential accidents. Here’s a step-by-step guide to conducting an air brake test.
What is an air brake?
Air brakes are a type of brake that uses compressed air to stop the vehicle. They’re often used on trucks and buses because they can handle the heavyweight of these vehicles.
How does air brake work?
When you step on the air brake pedal, it sends a signal to the air compressor. The air compressor then pumps air into the air tank. This increase in pressure activates the brakes and brings the vehicle to a stop.
Why do you need to do an air brake test?
The air brake test is important because it helps to ensure that the brakes are functioning properly. It’s also a good way to catch any potential problems so that they can be fixed before they cause an accident.
You should conduct an air brake test any time you’re going to be working on the brakes. This includes when you’re changing the brakes, inspecting them, or servicing them in any way.
How to do an air brake test?
Now that we’ve gone over some of the basics, let’s get into the details of how to actually conduct an air brake test. Follow these steps and you’ll be sure to have a successful test.
Step 1: Park the vehicle on & Check the Air Pressure
The first step is to check the air pressure in the system. You’ll want to make sure that it’s at least 90 psi (pounds per square inch). If it’s not, you’ll need to add more air before continuing with the test.
Step 2: Check the Warning Lights
The next step is to check the warning lights. There are several different warning lights, so you’ll want to make sure you know what each one means. If any of the warning lights are on, you’ll need to investigate and fix the problem before continuing.
Step 3: Check the Brake Chambers
The next step is to check the brake chambers. You’ll want to make sure that they’re all fully inflated and that there are no leaks. If there are any leaks, you’ll need to fix them before continuing.
Step 4: Check the Hoses
Next, you’ll want to check the hoses for damage or leaks. If there are any leaks, you’ll need to fix them before continuing.
Step 5: Check the Slack Adjusters
The next step is to check the slack adjusters. They should be adjusted so that there’s no more than 1/4 inch of play in the brake shoes. If there’s more than 1/4 inch of play, you’ll need to adjust the slack adjusters.
Step 6: Check the Brake Shoes
Next, you’ll want to check the brake shoes. They should be in good condition and have enough pad left to stop the vehicle. If they don’t, you’ll need to replace them.
Step 7: Test the Brakes
Finally, it’s time to test the brakes. Step on the air brake pedal and hold it down. The vehicle should stop within 25 feet. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to fix the brakes.
Now that you know how to do a basic air brake test, you can feel confident that your brakes are in good working order. Always be sure to complete a 7-step air brake test before working on air brakes. Thanks for reading!
7-Step Air Brake Test:
1. Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. The fluid should be at or near the “Full” line. If it’s low, add brake fluid to bring it up to level. NEVER operate the brakes if there’s not enough fluid in the reservoir!
2. Inspect the brake lines for leaks. If any leaks are found, they must be repaired before proceeding.
3. Check the condition of the brakes pads or shoes. They should be free of cracks, wear, or other damage.
4. Visually inspect the wheels for any signs of damage.
5. Using a tire gauge, check the air pressure in each tire. It should be at the level recommended by the manufacturer.
6. With the engine off, depress the brake pedal several times to build up air pressure in the system. The pedal should feel firm when fully depressed.
7. Start the engine and slowly depress the brake pedal again. The pedal should not sink to the floor and there should be no leaks in the system while under pressure.
If everything checks out OK, you can safely work on the brakes. If there are any problems with the brake system, they must be repaired before continuing. NEVER operate the brakes if they’re not in proper working order!
We hope this article has been helpful and that you now feel more confident in conducting your own 7-step air brake test. For more information on air brakes and how to maintain them, be sure to check out our other article.
Tools needed:
-Tire gauge
-Brake fluid
-Wrenches
-Hose clamps
-Crescent wrench
-Screwdriver
-Pliers
-Hammer
-Chisel
-File
-Safety glasses
-Earplugs
-Laboratory gloves
-Dust mask
-Safety cones or flags
– Reflective vest
– First Aid kit
– Fire extinguisher
– Spare parts for the brakes
– Repair manuals
– Air compressor
– Jack and jack stands
– Wheel chocks
– Socket set
– Impact wrench
– Torque wrench
– Wire brush
– Brake bleeding kit
– Drain pan
General instructions:
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Place wheel chocks around the wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
2. Jack up the vehicle and support it with jack stands. Be sure to use jack stands that are rated for the weight of your vehicle. NEVER work under a vehicle that is supported by a jack alone!
3. With the vehicle raised, remove the wheels and tires. This will give you better access to the brakes.
4. Inspect all of the brake components for wear or damage. If any parts are damaged, they will need to be replaced.
5. Disconnect the brake hoses from the master cylinder and use hose clamps to secure them out of the way.
6. Remove the brake shoes and pads. Be sure to note how they are installed so they can be reinstalled correctly later.
7. Clean all of the brake components with a wire brush. This will help remove any built-up corrosion or dirt.
8. Inspect the brake drum for wear or damage. If it’s damaged, it will need to be replaced.
9. Reinstall the brake shoes and pads, making sure they are installed in the correct position.
10. Reconnect the brake hoses to the master cylinder and tighten the hose clamps.
11. Bleed the brakes to remove any air from the system.
12. Reinstall the wheels and tires. Lower the vehicle to the ground and remove the jack stands.
13. Test the brakes to make sure they are working properly before driving the vehicle.
14 . If you have any questions about this process, be sure to consult a professional mechanic or repair manual. NEVER work on brakes without first understanding how they work and what safety precautions need to be taken! Thanks for reading!
15. Always remember to wear proper safety equipment when working on brakes, including gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask. And never work on brakes when the vehicle is under load – always use jack stands!
Some of the tools you will need for this project. Be sure to read the instructions carefully before beginning. If you’re not comfortable with any of the tasks described, please consult a professional mechanic. Photo by Ford Motor Company.
When working on brake systems, it is important to wear proper safety gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask. It is also important to remember that you should never work on brakes while the vehicle is under load – always use jack stands!
Common mistakes when doing air brake test:
-Not having enough brake fluid in the reservoir
-Not repairing any leaks in the system
-Operating the brakes with any problems present in the system
-Not building up air pressure in the system before depressing the brake pedal
-Depressing the brake pedal too quickly or harshly
-Not checking the condition of the brake pads or shoes
-Not checking the air pressure in the tires
-Not checking for any signs of damage to the wheels
-Not starting the engine before depressing the brake pedal again
-Not checking for leaks in the system while under pressure.
FAQs
Q: What is an air brake test?
A: An air brake test is a series of checks and tests that are conducted to ensure that the brakes are in good working order.
Q: Why do I need to do an air brake test?
A: Air brakes are a vital part of any vehicle, so it’s important to make sure they’re in good working order. An air brake test will help you identify any problems with the system so they can be fixed before they cause an accident.
Q: How often should I do an air brake test?
A: It’s a good idea to conduct an air brake test every time you service the brakes. This will help ensure that the system is always in good working order.
Q: What should I do if I find a problem with the brakes during an air brake test?
A: If you find a problem with the brakes, you should have it fixed as soon as possible. NEVER operate the brakes if they’re not in good working order!
Q: What is the minimum pressure required in the tires?
A: The minimum pressure required in the tires depends on the manufacturer of the vehicle. You can usually find this information in the owner’s manual.
Q: What is the pedal supposed to feel like when it’s fully depressing?
A: The pedal should feel firm when it’s fully depressed. If it feels spongy or sinks to the floor, there may be a problem with the system.
Conclusion
By following these seven steps, you can be confident that your air brakes are in good working condition. Always remember to stay safe when working with air brakes and to always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for more specific information.
Performing a 7-step air brake test is an important part of ensuring the safety of yourself and others on the road. By following this guide, you can be sure that your brakes are in good working order before heading out on a journey. And if you’re ever in doubt about how to properly inspect air brakes, don’t hesitate to consult a professional. Thanks for reading!
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