Last week, there were several accidents and indeed MP Henry Balikowa was one of the victims (RIP). We have been warning all road users (pedestrians and motorists) of the vulnerability especially towards festive seasons.
Since we had written partly about brakes last week, it was only good that we conclude on brakes before we tackle something else. Towards the end of our article last week, we wrote about the mysteries even the IOVs find in brakes that are perfect while the motorist may have claimed brake failure.
Brake fade is the reduction in stopping power that can occur after repeated application of the brakes especially in high load or high speed conditions. Brake fade is caused by a build up of heat in the braking surfaces and the subsequent changes and reactions in the brake system components and can occur to brake pads or brake drums. It is most common after going down a slope.
Brake fade is unexpected and in most cases lethal. It happens in at least 25% of vehicles to a certain degree. Brake fade comes with a spongy feel on the pedal and little or no braking force. All cars are susceptible to brake fade but driver habits will reduce or increase it.
The easiest way to avoid brake fade is by limiting use of the brakes especially when going downhill. Use of a lower gear will keep vehicle speed under control, thus using the brakes to a minimum. We are aware that several motorists prefer coasting (the natural rate of deceleration of a motor when power is removed). While it might be taken as the simplest deceleration method, it still is the number one enemy of brakes. Remember that brakes normally convert forward momentum of the car into heat.
This heat is known to cause pads to glow red and cheap pads can even smoke. Whenever you fit new pads first use them gently until they get used and are properly bedded in. Even then the quality of the pad you are using is important.
It is now clear that brake fade cannot be completely avoided. In fact that is why you periodically change those pads. You can, however reduce on brake fade by downshifting a vehicle when going down a slope rather than the application of the brakes. Avoid constant pressure by periodically tapping the brakes except when you really need them. The other alternative is purchasing high performance pads. The disadvantage here will be the initial cost which is higher, but will also last longer.
For your own safety, we advise not only to change driving habit, but also use genuine parts which may be seemingly high cost but still will end up being cheaper in terms of mileage cover and the down time since you will take longer without visiting a service station.
When your brake disks go out of shape because of heat or metal-to-metal contact, advise your technical people to have them skimmed before a new set of pads.
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