Many of the vehicles covered in this section are equipped with anti-lock
brakes. Before servicing any vehicle, please be sure to read all of the
following precautions, which deal with personal safety, prevention of
component damage, and important points to take into consideration when
servicing a motor vehicle:
- When servicing anti-lock brakes, do not force brake
fluid through the anti-lock solenoids when compressing the calipers. Instead,
open a bleeder screw and allow the brake fluid to escape when compressing
calipers.
- Some anti-lock systems store brake fluid under high
pressure. Pump the brake pedal with the engine off to bleed off residual
pressure before servicing any part of the braking system.
- Brake fluid often contains polyglycol ethers and
polyglycols. Avoid contact with the eyes and wash your hands thoroughly
after handling brake fluid. If you do get brake fluid in your eyes, flush
your eyes with clean, running water for 15 minutes. If eye irritation
persists, or if you have taken brake fluid internally, IMMEDIATELY seek
medical assistance.
- Clean, high quality brake fluid from a sealed container
is essential to the safe and proper operation of the brake system. You
should always buy the correct type of brake fluid for your vehicle. If
the brake fluid becomes contaminated, completely flush the system with
new fluid. Never reuse any brake fluid. Any brake fluid that is removed
from the system should be discarded. Also, do not allow any brake fluid
to come in contact with a painted surface; it will damage the paint.
- When servicing drum brakes, only disassemble and
assemble one side at a time, leaving the remaining side intact for reference.
