Keeping the Handbrake Working Well
The handbrake is often referred to as the parking brake. Why? Unlike regular brakes, the parking brake is very useful when your car is parked. This handbrake serves to ensure the car remains stationary, unchanged, or does not roll away. Generally, the handbrake uses the lever principle. How does it work? Let's take a look at the following explanation.
How the Handbrake Works
It is called a handbrake because the lever is designed to be easily grasped. You just pull the lever, which is usually located on the left side of the driver, as a bridge between the driver and the passenger in the front seat. This brake holds the rear wheels of the car to keep it stable in a stationary position. Most handbrakes use drum brakes that can be operated via a lever or button. When the lever is pulled, we automatically pull the wire that is in the?mount?at the bottom of the brake lever.?Kreeek,?that's the sound when the?lock point?intersects with?lock gear. It is called a handbrake because the lever is designed to be easily grasped.
You just pull the lever, which is usually located on the left side of the driver, as a bridge between the driver and the passenger in the front seat. This brake holds the rear wheels of the car to keep it stable in a stationary position. Most handbrakes use drum brakes that can be operated via a lever or button. When the lever is pulled, we automatically pull the wire that is in the?mount?at the bottom of the brake lever.?Kreeek,?that's the sound when the?lock point?intersects with?lock gear.
Then based on type and specifications, the horn can be classified into three types. The most commonly used horn is the type?So after the wire is pulled,?park brake strut?inside the drum brake will also be pulled. Interconnected,?park brake lever?will also be pulled. The pulling force will then trigger other components to expand the drum brake. The condition of the expanded drum brake is what then locks the rear wheels.
In general, the handbrake is supported by other components such as?lock nut, locking point,?cable wire,?park brake strut and spring, park brake lever, adjuster screw,?and brake shoe. On the other hand, there are also handbrakes that use disc brakes. The working system will be more complicated than drum brakes. Disc brakes apply a hydraulic system where pulling the brake lever will push the brake piston using a screw principle. Additionally, there are also cars that combine disc brakes with drum brakes.
Types of Handbrakes
Although it is called a handbrake, this brake does not always have to be designed for hand strength. There are several types of parking brakes that you should know. First, the stick brake, which is the brake we often encounter. It looks like a lever and is pulled with the left hand.
The second is the pedal brake, this is the brake that cannot be pulled or pushed with the hand. Clearly, it is located below, next to the gas pedal. By pressing the brake pedal deeper than usual, you have activated the parking brake. To deactivate it, you just need to press this pedal deeper again so that the pedal will release. This type is often found in automatic cars.
And the third is the button brake, this may be the most practical brake for you to apply. Just press a button, and the brake lever will rise by itself. This brake is also called the electric parking brake.
3 Tips for Ensuring the Handbrake Works Well
There are three tips to keep your car's brakes durable and functioning well. Do not drive the car when the parking brake or handbrake has not been released. The brake pads can wear out and be depleted, the engine temperature can rise sharply, the braking system can be disrupted, and if repeated continuously, your tires can become bald.
Then, when parking on a downhill or uphill road, make sure to provide a wedge in the form of a stone or thick block on the car's wheels. The brakes can wear out quickly when receiving a load for too long. If the brakes are overwhelmed, your car could roll away. The wedge on the wheels can help the handbrake hold the existing load.
Next, don't forget to perform regular maintenance. Worn and heavy brakes may need their components replaced and adjusted by skilled mechanics. Brakes are very important, not only when driving but also when parking. With this brake, our car can remain stable, calm, and of course, safe. So, don't forget to pay attention to the condition of your handbrake!
