Should the handbrake be pulled up or released when driving?
1 Answers
When driving, the handbrake should be released. It needs to be pulled up when parking. The professional term for the handbrake is auxiliary brake, which operates differently from the main brake system. It uses a steel cable connected to the rear brake shoes to apply braking force to the vehicle. Prolonged use of the handbrake can cause the steel cable to undergo plastic deformation. Since this deformation is irreversible, long-term use will reduce its effectiveness, and the handbrake's travel distance will increase. When the handbrake is pulled, it utilizes a hydraulic auxiliary cylinder to drive the movement of the main hydraulic cylinder beneath the vehicle, which then activates the air valve. Once the air valve is engaged, it applies braking force to the drive shaft. The handbrake only brakes the drive shaft. As a frequently used system, proper and correct usage of the handbrake ensures smoother operation in the future.