BRAKING Braking system is one of the more important systems from the point of view of sa fety and handling.

If it is efficient, it not only ensures speed control and sto pping, but also inspires confidence in the driver as it allows him to drive bett er. In a race such as BAJA, a vehicle needs maneuverability as well as stable ha ndling. Based on these considerations, we decided to search for a braking system that wo uld be reliable and powerful as well. Detailed study revealed that disc brakes o ffer better stopping performance than comparable drum brakes, including resistan ce to "brake fade" caused by the overheating of brake components, and are able t o recover quickly from immersion (wet brakes are less effective). The disk brake is a device for slowing or stopping the rotation of a wheel. To stop the wheel, friction material in the form of brake pads (mounted on a device called a brake caliper) is forced mechanically, hydraulically, pneumatically or electromagneti cally against both sides of the disc. Friction causes the disc and attached whee l to slow or stop. In this system, brake pads are pressed hydraulically against the disc for producing the required friction.