What should be measured to check pushrod stroke during a brake inspection?

To check pushrod stroke during a brake inspection, measuring the pushrod length before and after pressure is applied is essential. This measurement helps in determining how much the pushrod travels when the brake is engaged, which indicates the effectiveness of the brake system.

The pushrod is responsible for transmitting the force from the brake pedal to the master cylinder, and understanding its stroke helps identify if there are any issues such as excessive wear or misalignment. By comparing the pushrod's length before and after applying pressure, technicians can assess whether the brake system is functioning properly. If the stroke is not within the manufacturer's specifications, it could signal a problem that may lead to insufficient braking power or potential failure.

Other measurements, such as brake fluid levels or vehicle height, are important for different aspects of the braking system but do not directly assess the pushrod stroke's effectiveness. Similarly, measuring brake pad thickness is crucial for evaluating brake performance but does not provide insight into the pushrod mechanism's operation.