The hydraulic pressure exerted by the brake pedal pushes the wheel brake cylinders through the brake line and hose. The wheel brake cylinders press the brake shoes against the brake drum, slowing the car down.
To bleed the brake system, a bleed nipple is mounted on the wheel brake cylinder. It is also protected against corrosion by a cap.
How to identify a broken brake cylinder?
A broken brake cylinder can usually be detected by a brake fluid leak or by the fact that one or two pistons are stuck in the housing due to corrosion (rust). If you detect it in time, it is often the case that only the protective cover is full of brake fluid, if you detect the leak late in the process and the inside of the brake drum is completely greasy, it is advisable to replace the brake linings. The brake lining absorbs the brake fluid like a sponge and has a permanent negative influence on the braking force.
The disadvantage of often fragile brake bleeds is that they can break, with replacement of the complete brake cylinder being the only solution.
A or B quality
Some wheel brake cylinders are available in two qualities, if available for the brake cylinder of your choice the alternative quality is listed under the tab alternatives. If you choose for A-quality you are assured of a very high quality brake cylinder which is equal to the original. If you choose for the cheaper version, the quality will be a bit less on all levels, keep in mind that the life span will be considerably shorter and once assembled, no warranty claims can be made.
Caution : The brake cylinders must never be dry mounted, each internal part must be lubricated with a thin layer of brake cylinder paste. You might think that the new brake parts are already equipped with pastes at the factory, but this is not always the case. You must check this yourself before assembling the part. See the Options tab to order the right mounting paste.
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