Operator`s manual

32
SECTION 7
MAINTENANCE INFORMATION
Figure 7-24. Hydraulic brake cylinder and fluid level
Do not overfill the brake master cylinders. Fluid level
must be at the top of the view window. Overfilling can
cause seal damage.
Use only SILICONE - DOT5 BRAKE FLUID. Other brake
fluid may not be compatible with ARGO brake compo-
nents and operating temperatures. Use of other fluids
will void the warranty.
7.4.3 CHANGING BRAKE FLUID
The inherent stability of Silicone DOT 5 Brake Fluid reduces
the need for frequent brake fluid replacement. Inspect the
fluid for degradation (discolouration or particles) during nor-
mal fluid level inspections. If discolouration has occurred, the
brake fluid system should be drained, flushed and re-filled
with fresh brake fluid. If particles are evident in the fluid, drain
the system, overhaul the master cylinder and the brake caliper
before flushing and refilling. An ARGO dealer will preform
these operations for you.
7.4.4 HYDRAULIC BRAKE PAD INSPECTION
Inspect the brake pads after every 25 hours of operation. Worn,
glazed or contaminated brake pads affect the efficiency of the
brake system. To inspect the pads, first remove the firewall.
To remove the firewall:
1. Turn the firewall release catch (located at the bottom of the
firewall) counter-clockwise 1/4 turn.
2. Using the finger holes, pull the bottom of the firewall back
until the top of the firewall is clear of the vehicle dash.
3. Lift the firewall clear of the driving compartment.
Brake Pad Inspection Procedure
With the firewall removed, both hydraulic brake calipers are
visible. Each caliper has 2 brake pads which are secured by
cotter pins (Figure 7-27). Inspect all 4 brake pads. Replace the
pads when:
• the brake lining material molded to each metal backing plate
is worn to 0.10" thickness. (Figure 7-26)
• the pads are glazed and brake performance is affected.
• the pads are contaminated with lubricant, and brake per-
formance is affected.
To replace the brake pads:
Remove both cotter pins from each brake caliper. Remove
each brake caliper from the transmission using a 5/16" hex
driver to remove the two 103-41 SHCS mounting bolts acces-
sible through the brake disc holes as shown in Figure 7-25.
Without disturbing the connection of the hydraulic hose as-
sembly, swing the caliper away from the brake disc to allow
the removal of the brake pads as shown in Figure 7-27. Install
the brake pads into the caliper assembly. Remount the caliper
to the transmission, using #242 Loctite or equivalent remov-
able compound on the threads of the 103-41 SHCS mounting
bolts and tighten securely. Insert two new cotter pins and
bend the ends over to secure the pads in position.
Pump the steering levers a few times to build up proper pres-
sure and to locate the pads in the caliper assembly. Check the
steering lever travel and adjust if required.