310S Brake Systems 2

Question 1

What is the function of the brake caliper?

Accepted Answer

To house the brake piston(s) and clamp the brake pads against the rotor when hydraulic pressure is applied

Answer

The brake caliper straddles the brake rotor and contains one or more hydraulic pistons. When pressure is applied, the piston(s) push the brake pads against the rotor, creating friction to slow the wheel.

Question 2

What is the purpose of the vacuum brake booster?

Accepted Answer

To multiply the driver's brake pedal force using engine vacuum to reduce pedal effort

Answer

The vacuum booster uses engine intake manifold vacuum on one side of a large diaphragm and atmospheric pressure on the other to multiply the driver's pedal force, typically by a factor of 3-4, reducing the effort needed to brake.

Question 3

What is the correct procedure for bleeding a brake system?

Accepted Answer

Start with the wheel farthest from the master cylinder and work toward the closest

Answer

The standard bleeding sequence starts at the wheel farthest from the master cylinder (usually right rear) and works toward the closest (usually left front). This ensures air is progressively pushed out of the longest lines first.

Question 4

What causes a brake caliper to stick or seize?

Accepted Answer

Corroded caliper piston, damaged piston seal, or corroded slide pins preventing proper movement

Answer

Caliper sticking is caused by corrosion on the piston bore, a swollen or damaged piston seal, or corroded/dry caliper slide pins (on floating calipers) that prevent the caliper from retracting or sliding freely.

Question 5

What is the purpose of DOT brake fluid ratings (DOT 3, DOT 4, DOT 5.1)?

Accepted Answer

They specify minimum dry and wet boiling points to ensure the fluid can withstand heat generated during braking

Answer

DOT ratings specify minimum boiling points — both dry (new fluid) and wet (moisture-contaminated fluid). Higher DOT numbers indicate higher boiling points, providing more resistance to vapour lock during hard braking.

Red Seal Auto Tech 310S Practice Test

Red Seal Auto Tech 310S Practice Test

310S Brake Systems 2