1998 Chevrolet Prizm Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

Manual

Pressure bleeding is recommended for all hydraulic systems. However, if a pressure bleeder is unavailable, use the following procedure. Brake fluid damages painted surfaces. Immediately clean any spilled fluid.

• Remove vacuum reserve by pumping brakes several times with engine off.
• Fill master cylinder reservoir with clean brake fluid. Do not let reservoir fall below half full during bleeding procedure.
• If necessary, bleed master cylinder as follows:
• Loosen master cylinder forward brake line connection until fluid flows from reservoir, then tighten brake line.
• Instruct an ass...

When working on or around brake assemblies, care must be taken to prevent breathing asbestos dust, as many manufacturers incorporate asbestos fibers in the production of brake linings. During routine service operations the amount of asbestos dust from brake lining wear is at a low level due to a chemical breakdown during use, and a few precautions will minimize exposure.

• Do not sand or grind brake linings unless suitable local exhaust ventilation equipment is used to prevent excessive asbestos exposure.
• Wear a suitable respirator approved for asbestos dust use during all repair proced...

Two basic types of power assist mechanisms are used: vacuum assist diaphragm assemblies, which use engine vacuum or, in some cases vacuum pressure developed by an external vacuum pump. The second type is a hydraulic pressure assist mechanism, which use pressure developed by an external pump (usually the power steering pump). Both systems act to increase the force exerted on the master cylinder piston by the operator. This in turn increases the hydraulic pressure delivered to the wheel cylinders, while decreasing driver effort necessary to obtain acceptable stopping performance.

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• Inspect brake drum, shoes, strut, auto adjuster lever, springs and backing plate for wear, distortion, cracks or other abnormal conditions.
• If any parts are of doubtful strength or quality due to damage, heat discoloration, stress or wear, replace them.
• Measure brake drum inside diameter and the brake shoe lining thickness.
• Inspect lining and drum for proper contact.

Brake Drums

Any time the brake drums are removed for brake service, the braking surface diameter should be inspected with a suitable brake drum micrometer at several points to determine if they are within the safe oversize li...

• After disassembling a power brake unit, soak all metal parts in solvent.
• Use only alcohol on parts containing rubber. After the parts have been thoroughly cleaned and rinsed in solvent, they should be rewashed in clean alcohol before assembling.
• Use compressed air...