Safety With Braking Systems, Tires, and Wheels



Keep these 8 safety precautions in mind when working with braking systems, tires, and wheels.

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1.  The springs used on a drum brake system are  
     under high pressure during removal or installation.
     Always use the correct tools for maximum safety.

2.  When bleeding the brakes, brake fluid must be
     forced out of the hydraulic system, along with the
     air.  To eliminate the possibility of spilling the fluid,
     use a hose connected from the bleeding valve to a
     canister to catch excess brake fluid.

3.  Brake fluid is considered a toxic fluid.  Always use
     rubber gloves so that the brake fluid does not get
     on your hands.  If so, wash with soap and water
     immediately. Brake fluid can be absorbed into the
     skin. If a skin rash occurs, see a doctor
     immediately.  Note that brake fluid will also cause
     certain paints to dissolve and be damaged.

4.  Be careful not to breathe the dust particles left in a
     drum brake assembly when removing the brakes.  
     The dust may contain asbestos, which can 
     seriously injure your lungs and cause illness.



Back to Safety

5.  At times the brake pads or shoes may drag on the
     rotor or drum during driving.  The friction causes
     the brake assembly to become very hot.  Be careful
     not to burn your hands when servicing brake
     systems after running the street rod.

6.  When removing a tire from its rim, remember to use
     the proper tools and procedure.  There is high
     pressure on the tire sides and this pressure
     could cause serious injury during removal and
     installation.

7.  When a tire is being inflated after it has been
     replaced on the rim, the bead will often pop into
     place.  Keep your fingers away from the bead
     during inflation. 

8.  Be careful when handling a tire that has shredded 
     during high speeds along a highway.  There may
     be sharp metal wires protruding from inside the
     bead which could cut your hands.