E-Z-GO Freedom TXT - Gas Owner Manual - Page 56

MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES Read all of this manual to become thoroughly familiar with this vehicle. Pay particular attention to all Notices, Cautions, Warnings, and Dangers. Allow the solution to sit for at least three minutes; use a soft bristle brush or cloth to wipe the tops of the battery to remove any residue that could contribute to the self discharge of the battery. Rinse the entire area with low pressure clear water. Do not use a pressure washer. BRAKES To reduce the possibility of severe injury or death, always evaluate pedal travel before operating a vehicle to verify some braking function is present. All driving brake tests must be done in a safe location with regard for the safety of all personnel. Over time, a subtle loss of performance may take place; therefore, it is important to establish the standard with a new vehicle. The Periodic Brake Performance Test should be performed regularly as an evaluation of braking system performance. It is useful as a method of identifying subtle loss of performance over time. Periodic Brake Test For Mechanical Brakes Dry, Level, Clean, Paved Surface Accelerate To Maximum Speed Latch Parking Brake and Take Foot Off Pedal Line or Marker Line or Marker Acceptable Stopping 4 ft. (1.2 m) Distance Ref Bpt 2S Normal Range of Stopping Distance Any vehicles that stop more than 4 ft. (1.2 m) beyond the Acceptable Stopping Distance or pulls to one side should be removed from service and inspected by a qualified mechanic The purpose of this test is to compare the braking performance of the vehicle to the braking performance of new or 'known to be good' vehicles or to an established acceptable stopping distance. Actual stopping distances will be influenced by weather conditions, terrain, road surface condition, actual vehicle weight (accessories installed) and vehicle speed. No specific braking distance can be reliably specified. The test is conducted by latching the park brake to eliminate different pedal pressures and to include the affects of linkage mis-adjustment. Establish the acceptable stopping distance by testing a new or 'known to be good' vehicle and recording the stopping location or stopping distance. For fleets of vehicles, several vehicles should be tested when new and the range of stopping locations or distances recorded. Over time, a subtle loss of performance may take place; therefore, it is important to establish the standard with a new vehicle. Page 50 Owner's Guide