Air Brake Practice Test

What should you do each day during winter weather when the car is packed with an alcohol evaporator?

1. Change the alcohol from a new bottle

2. Drain the accumulated alcohol

3. Check and fill the alcohol level

4. Remove old alcohol completely

The correct answer is: Check and fill the alcohol level

In winter weather, it is crucial to ensure that the alcohol evaporator is functioning properly to prevent brake freeze-up. Checking and filling the alcohol level is essential because a sufficient level of alcohol helps to absorb moisture in the brake system, ensuring that it remains operational even in freezing temperatures. Maintaining this level also ensures that the evaporator can effectively do its job, which is to provide a consistent flow of alcohol that prevents ice formation within the air brake system. Winter conditions can exacerbate moisture issues, so regular monitoring of the alcohol level helps to avoid potential brake failure due to freezing. The other choices would not effectively address the immediate needs of the system in cold weather: changing the alcohol or draining it doesn't necessarily ensure that the system is prepared for freezing conditions, and removing old alcohol completely might not be practical, as it’s more about maintaining the right level rather than completely changing it out. Keeping the alcohol topped off is the most proactive approach to maintaining brake performance in winter.