Lesson Note on Braking System—Removal, and Removal of Brake Lining: Bleeding Brakes for SS2

Class: Senior Secondary School 2 (SS2 / SSS2)
Term: 3rd Term
Week: 6
Age: 16 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Auto Mechanic Work
Curriculum Theme: Technical/Vocational Studies
Previous Lesson: Braking System—Faults in Braking System: Remove Brake to Find Fault.
Topic: BRAKING SYSTEM— REMOVAL, AND REMOVAL OF BRAKE LINING
Subject Matter: Meaning of BRAKING SYSTEM— REMOVAL, AND REMOVAL OF BRAKE LINING (definition of brake lining service), procedures for bleeding brakes (air removal, fluid flow), brake bleeding during operation (practice steps)

Specific Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

Cognitive Domain:

• Define brake lining service.
• Explain the importance of bleeding the braking system.
• Outline the general procedures for bleeding brakes.

Affective Domain:

• Appreciate the necessity of proper brake maintenance for safety.
• Value teamwork and precision during brake system procedures.

Psychomotor Domain:

• Demonstrate the correct sequence for bleeding a vehicle’s braking system.
• Properly monitor fluid levels and air removal during brake bleeding.

Social Domain:

• Work cooperatively with peers when performing practical brake bleeding exercises.
• Communicate effectively during practical tasks to ensure safety and accuracy.

Reference Materials

The following resources were used in planning this lesson:

• Senior Secondary Schools Education Curriculum
• State Unified Scheme of Work
• Automobile Mechanics by W.H. Crouse and D.L. Anglin
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fj2F2aJ-t3M
• https://www.autozone.com/diy/brakes/how-to-bleed-brakes

Instructional Materials

The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:

• Complete tool box (including wrenches, brake bleeder kit, fluid catch bottle)
• Live vehicle with a hydraulic braking system
• Charts illustrating the braking system and bleeding sequence
• Safety equipment (gloves, eye protection)
• Fresh brake fluid

Rationale for the Lesson

This lesson helps pupils understand the critical process of maintaining a vehicle’s braking system, specifically brake lining service and bleeding. It ensures they can perform these tasks correctly, which is important for vehicle safety and their future careers in auto mechanics.

Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

Pupils have basic knowledge of vehicle components, hydraulic systems, and general workshop safety rules.

Lesson Content/Board Summary

BRAKING SYSTEM— REMOVAL, AND REMOVAL OF BRAKE LINING

Definition of Brake Lining Service

Brake lining service involves the inspection, maintenance, and replacement of brake pads or shoes and their linings. This service ensures the braking system functions effectively by providing sufficient friction to stop the vehicle.

Procedures for Bleeding Brakes

Brake bleeding is the process of removing air bubbles from the hydraulic braking system. Air in the brake lines can cause a spongy brake pedal and reduced braking effectiveness.

Tools Required:

• Wrenches (open-end or flare nut)
• Brake bleeder kit or a clear hose and container
• Fresh, correct type of brake fluid
• Safety goggles and gloves
• Jack and jack stands (if wheels need to be removed)

Steps for Bleeding Brakes:

1. Preparation: Park the vehicle on a level surface. Ensure the engine is off and the parking brake is engaged. Gather all necessary tools and safety equipment.
2. Locate Bleeder Screws: Identify the bleeder screws on each brake caliper or wheel cylinder.
3. Fill Master Cylinder: Top up the brake fluid reservoir to the MAX line with fresh, clean brake fluid. Keep the reservoir cap loose or removed during bleeding.
4. Bleeding Sequence: Always start with the brake caliper/cylinder farthest from the master cylinder and work towards the closest. The typical sequence is:
   • Rear passenger side (farthest)
   • Rear driver side
   • Front passenger side
   • Front driver side (closest)
5. Connect Bleeder Hose: Attach one end of the clear hose to the bleeder screw and place the other end into a container with some brake fluid at the bottom.
6. Bleeding Process (Two-Person Method):
   • Step 1: One person sits in the driver’s seat.
   • Step 2: The other person loosens the bleeder screw slightly.
   • Step 3: The person in the car slowly presses the brake pedal to the floor and holds it there.
   • Step 4: The person at the wheel observes fluid and air bubbles flowing into the container.
   • Step 5: While the pedal is still held down, the bleeder screw is tightened.
   • Step 6: The person in the car releases the brake pedal.
   • Step 7: Repeat steps 2-6 until no more air bubbles are seen in the fluid coming from that wheel.
7. Monitor Fluid Level: Regularly check and refill the master cylinder reservoir during the bleeding process to prevent air from re-entering the system.
8. Repeat for All Wheels: Follow the same procedure for all other wheels in the correct sequence.
9. Final Check: Once all wheels are bled, tighten all bleeder screws and top off the master cylinder. Test the brake pedal for firmness before driving the vehicle.

Brake Bleeding during Operation (Practical Steps)

Practical application involves performing the bleeding process on a live vehicle under supervision. This reinforces the theoretical knowledge and develops psychomotor skills.

• Safety First: Ensure the vehicle is securely supported and personal protective equipment is worn.
• Teamwork: Effective communication between the person pumping the pedal and the person at the wheel is essential.
• Fluid Disposal: Old brake fluid must be collected and disposed of responsibly.
• Observation: Pay close attention to the fluid flow for air bubbles and the feel of the brake pedal.

Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques

Discussion, Lecture, Demonstration, Question and Answer, Visual Aids

Instructional Procedures

Step 1: Introduction

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the pupils, reviews the previous lesson on braking system components, and introduces the new topic: “Braking System—Removal, and Removal of Brake Lining.”
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to greetings, recall previous knowledge, and listen attentively to the introduction.
Learning Point: Pupils are prepared for the new lesson.

Step 2: Definition of Brake Lining Service

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Definition
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher defines brake lining service, explaining its purpose and importance in vehicle maintenance.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, take notes, and ask questions for clarification.
Learning Point: Pupils understand what brake lining service entails.

Step 3: Explanation of Brake Bleeding

Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Lecture
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains why brake bleeding is necessary (air in the system), the effect of air on braking, and lists the tools required. The teacher also outlines the general sequence for bleeding brakes.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, observe the charts, and note down key points and tools.
Learning Point: Pupils grasp the reasons and basic requirements for brake bleeding.

Step 4: Demonstration of Brake Bleeding Procedures

Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Modeling
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher uses the live vehicle and/or charts to demonstrate the step-by-step procedures for bleeding brakes, emphasizing safety and proper technique.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the demonstration carefully, paying attention to the teacher’s actions and explanations.
Learning Point: Pupils visually learn the practical steps involved in brake bleeding.

Step 5: Practical Session on Brake Bleeding (Pupil Participation)

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Guided Practice
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher supervises as pupils, in groups, begin to practice the brake bleeding procedure on the live vehicle, focusing on the correct sequence and fluid level control.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils actively participate in the practical session under the teacher’s guidance, following the demonstrated steps.
Learning Point: Pupils gain hands-on experience in bleeding brakes.

Step 6: Safety Precautions

Time: 2 minutes
Teaching Skill: Emphasizing Safety
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher reminds pupils of all relevant safety precautions to observe while working on the braking system, including proper handling of brake fluid and vehicle support.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and acknowledge the safety instructions.
Learning Point: Pupils are aware of and commit to safety practices.

Step 7: Evaluation/Review

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:

1. What is brake lining service?
2. Why is it important to bleed a vehicle’s braking system?
3. List three essential tools needed for bleeding brakes.
4. Describe the correct sequence for bleeding brakes on a typical vehicle.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.

Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding of the lesson.

Step 8: Conclusion

Time: 3 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summarizing
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the main points of the lesson, reiterating the importance of proper brake maintenance for safety. The teacher assigns homework, which may include researching different types of brake fluids and their properties.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to the summary and note down the homework assignment.
Learning Point: Pupils consolidate their learning and are given further study tasks.

Lesson Keywords

• Braking System – The system in a vehicle responsible for slowing down or stopping its movement.
• Brake Lining Service – The maintenance, inspection, and replacement of brake pads or shoes and their friction material.
• Brake Bleeding – The process of removing air bubbles from the hydraulic brake lines to ensure proper brake function.
• Master Cylinder – The component that converts the force from the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure.
• Bleeder Screw – A small valve on a brake caliper or wheel cylinder used to release air and fluid during bleeding.

Differentiation

For pupils who grasp concepts quickly, the teacher will provide additional scenarios for brake bleeding (e.g., bleeding ABS systems). For pupils needing more support, the teacher will offer one-on-one guidance during the practical session and simplify explanations of the hydraulic principles.

Note for teachers using this lesson plan

Ensure all safety precautions are strictly followed during the practical demonstration and pupil participation. Emphasize the correct type of brake fluid for the specific vehicle being used. Encourage pupils to ask questions and discuss their observations during the practical session.