Xtreme Off-Road Season 2 Episode 24 Pinion Brake Tech

In Xtreme Off-Road season 2 episode 24, titled "Pinion Brake Tech," host Ian Johnson and the team tackle a common problem that off-roaders face: brake failure. They focus on upgrading the rear pinion brake on a Jeep TJ.

The episode starts with Johnson introducing the problem. He explains that when you go off-roading, heat builds up in the brakes and can cause them to fail. This is especially dangerous when you're tackling steep declines. Johnson suggests that upgrading to a pinion brake can help prevent this problem.

To demonstrate how it works, Johnson takes us to a steep hill with a 60-degree incline. He shows what happens when you try to descend this hill with regular brakes—your brake pedal goes all the way to the floor, and you lose control of your vehicle. But when you have a pinion brake, it transfers the braking power directly to the rear wheels, providing better control.

Next, Johnson takes us to the shop where the team will install the pinion brake on their Jeep TJ. They start by removing the old drum brakes and the differential cover. Then they clean everything up and prepare for the new parts.

The team inserts the pinion brake assembly into the differential and secures it with bolts. They attach the cables that will control the brake, and they run the brake lines up to the front of the vehicle. Johnson explains that you need to have a proportioning valve to balance the front and rear brakes correctly.

The team installs the proportioning valve and tests the brake to make sure it's working properly. Johnson takes us back to the steep hill to demonstrate how the pinion brake makes a difference. This time, he's able to descend the hill smoothly and safely, with complete control over the vehicle.

To finish up the episode, Johnson gives some tips on how to maintain your pinion brake. He recommends checking the brake pads regularly and replacing them when they wear down. He also reminds us to keep the brake system clean and to avoid getting water or mud in it.

Overall, "Pinion Brake Tech" is a helpful episode for anyone who's into off-roading. Johnson and the team provide clear explanations and demonstrations of how the pinion brake works and how to install and maintain it. It's a valuable upgrade for anyone who wants to stay safe and in control while off-roading.