We all know that brake wear, damage and the need for replacements can cause major problems. But did you know that choosing the right brake fluids can make a difference to the life of your equipment? If you’re trying to save time by not checking out your options or hoping to minimize expense by putting off routine maintenance and/or choosing poor products, you’re only going to run into more cost and expensive issues down the road.
Here at Greg’s Petroleum Service, we’re proud to offer fuel service, oils and lubricants, and top quality solvents and chemicals to maintain your fleet of valuable equipment. Based on years of experience, we know that making the correct choices can make all the difference in how your machinery performs and can even extend its lifespan.
So, what do you need to know to extend the life of your brakes, and improve their performance overall? To help, we’ve put together a guide of need-to-know basics. Read on to learn more about how to maintain your braking system.
Advice from a commercial fuel service provider: the right care for braking systems
The first thing we advise is to always keep up with routine fleet service. It’s often helpful to add a brake check to the schedule, just as you do regular oil changes. We recommend that you plan to have your brakes checked every three to six months, depending on the use of the vehicle. The brake check can be done at the same time you would have tires rotated, or on a seasonal basis.
What should you look for during a brake check? Ideally, you’re going to want to have the thickness of the brake pads checked, as well as the calipers, and look for evidence of wear to the drums. But that’s not all a good mechanic will look for as they are performing system maintenance.
Additionally, you must have your brake fluid system maintained. It’s a key part of the process, because brake systems function through use of hydraulics. In general, the way it works is that when you put your foot on the brake pedal, it moves a lever and piston that pushes the fluid through a cylinder. That process multiplies and transmits the power to stop through the brake system.
For that reason, routine brake maintenance should include a check for leaks. But even if no leaks are found, it’s still important to replace old brake fluid.
Did you know that sluggish brake response is a sign that you need to replace old brake fluid? The reason is because old brake fluid absorbs moisture, which will not only reduce the power of your brakes but can also cause the corrosion in the system that can lead to premature brake failure.
So, how often do you need to replace brake fluid to maintain power and prevent corrosion and failure? Many manufacturers recommend that you change every 20,000 miles, or at intervals of every 2 years. But of course, that will vary based on use and conditions.
Here are a few additional signs of a braking system that is having trouble:
– Sounds like squeaking, grinding, or scraping
– The vehicle pulls off to one side when you apply the brakes
– Bouncing up and down when you apply the brakes
– A burning smell
If any of those sound like something you’re experiencing, or you just have questions, it’s time to reach out to a mechanic.
And for more information about top quality, long lasting brake fluids and brake system flush, please contact us at Greg’s Petroleum Service. As the leading fuel fleet service providers in California, our team of experts know that the right fluid can make all of the difference, which is why we recommend and provide Valvoline Professional Series brake fluids.
If we can provide you with information, service, or products please don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us. We look forward to hearing from you!