Another splended and helpful page from dodge50.co.uk
Another splended and helpful page from dodge50.co.uk
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM All Dodge 50 Series Vehicles
The hydraulic system operates with two independent circuits, one supplying the front and the other the rear brakes. If a leak develops in one circuit the other is unaffected. Regularly check the hydraulic system for leaks, damage, chafing or corrosion. Have any defects rectified immediately.
Checking Fluid Level
The brake fluid reservoir is located
beneath the bonnet on vacuum hydraulic models or behind the cab, on the outside
of the chassis sidemember on air hydraulic models. The translucent container
allows the level to be seen without removing the cap.
Correct fluid level (B) is indicated on the front face of the reservoir marked
'MAX'. Do not overfill.
Never allow the fluid level to fall to the 'MIN' mark (C).
Fluid levels should be checked physically at regular intervals. Frequent necessity
for topping up indicates a fluid leak which must be rectified immediately.
If topping up is necessary, clean the area surrounding the cap thoroughly before
removal. Top up with clean unused fluid to the correct specification, replace
the cap.
To check operation of warning system
To check the low level warning light
bulb simply open the cab door. The warning light should illuminate.
To check the operation of the low level warning switch (A) mounted in the cap
of the fluid reservoir, proceed as follows:-
1) Ensure that the cab interior lamps are switched to the courtesy position
i.e. lamps only light when doors are open.
2) Close both cab doors.
3) Press the filler cap and check that cab interior lamps illuminate.
Bleeding the system
This is not a routine maintenance item and should only be necessary when air has entered the system. Entrust this work to your authorised dealer if required. Click Here for my personal help. ( Will put up detailed instructions when I get Time )
Hydraulic pipe connections
Check for leaks and damage of pipe lines, unions, flexible hoses, etc. If tightening
of unions is necessary over tightening must be avoided - THIS WORK SHOULD BE
ENTRUSTED TO AN AUTHORISED DEALER
Due to the use of salt to disperse snow and ice on roads during winter months,
it is important that brake pipes are checked (without dismantling) for corrosion
at the recommended intervals.
Changing Brake Fluid, Seals
and Hoses
In the interest of safety it is recommended that hydraulic fluid, seals and
flexible hoses are renewed at the intervals stated in the Service Schedule.
LOAD SENSING VALVE
The load sensing valve regulates the braking pressure passing to the rear brakes so that maximum pressure is only available when the vehicle is fully laden. As the vehicle's load is reduced the valve automatically lowers the braking pressure.
Accurate setting of the valve is essential and should be carried out by your
dealer. A brake data plate is located on the vertical panel of the step well
showing the valve setting dimension 'Y' for your vehicle. The 'Y' dimension
is determined using the unladen weight of the rear axle and is set before delivery
to the operator. Any alteration which may change the unladen weight e.g. change
of body will necessitate re-setting the valve. A change of rear springs will
also require valve re-adjustment. A new brake data plate will have to be fitted
showing the new unladen weight and 'Y' dimension.
During the normal life of the vehicle the valve will require re-adjustment due
to spring settlement (especially during its early life) at the periods shown
in the service schedules.
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