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MAINTENANCE
Read all of this manual to become thoroughly familiar with this vehicle. Pay particular attention to all Notices, Cautions, Warnings, and Dangers.
5
BRAKES
To reduce the possibility of severe injury or death, always evaluate pedal travel before operating
a vehicle to verify some braking function is present.
All driving brake tests must be done in a safe location with regard for the safety of all personnel.
Over time, a subtle loss of performance may take place; therefore, it is important to establish the standard with a new
vehicle.
The Periodic Brake Performance Test should be performed regularly as an evaluation of braking system perfor-
mance. It is useful as a method of identifying subtle loss of performance over time.
Periodic Brake Test For Mechanical Brakes
The purpose of this test is to compare the braking performance of the vehicle to the braking performance of new or
‘known to be good’ vehicles or to an established acceptable stopping distance. Actual stopping distances will be
influenced by weather conditions, terrain, road surface condition, actual vehicle weight (accessories installed) and
vehicle speed. No specific braking distance can be reliably specified. The test is conducted by latching the park
brake to eliminate different pedal pressures and to include the affects of linkage mis-adjustment.
Establish the acceptable stopping distance by testing a new or ‘known to be good’ vehicle and recording the stopping
location or stopping distance. For fleets of vehicles, several vehicles should be tested when new and the range of
stopping locations or distances recorded.
Over time, a subtle loss of performance may take place; therefore, it is important to establish the standard with a new
vehicle.
Drive the vehicle at maximum speed on a flat, dry, clean, paved surface. Quickly press the brake pedal to latch the
parking brake at the line or marker in the test area and remove foot from pedal.
NOTICE
Latch
Parking Brake
and Take Foot
Off Pedal
Line or Marker
Acceptable
Stopping
Distance
Normal Range of
Stopping Distance
Any vehicles that stop
more than 4 ft. (1.2 m)
beyond the Acceptable
Stopping Distance or
pulls to one side should
be removed from service
and inspected by a
qualified mechanic
Accelerate To
Maximum Speed
4 ft. (1.2 m)
Line or Marker
Dry, Level, Clean, Paved Surface
NOTICE
