What could indicate oil or grease saturation on brake linings?

Oil or grease saturation on brake linings can manifest in various ways, and recognizing these indicators is crucial for ensuring safe vehicle operation. The presence of oil or grease can compromise the effectiveness of the brake system, leading to potential failure.

Cracking of the brake linings can occur when they are exposed to contaminants such as oil or grease. This exposure can cause the linings to break down, leading to cracks as the material deteriorates under stress and heat during braking. The integrity of the brake linings is vital for their function, and any signs of cracking suggest that the linings are not performing adequately due to contamination.

Additionally, separation from the shoes is another significant indicator of contamination like oil or grease. When brake linings absorb oil, they may soften and fail to adhere properly to the backing plate, leading to separation. This detachment reduces the contact area between the braking surface and the shoes, severely impairing braking effectiveness.

Both of these observations are essential for the assessment of brake linings. Recognizing these symptoms allows for appropriate preventative measures to be taken, such as cleaning, replacing, or addressing the source of lubrication to ensure the safe functioning of the brakes. Hence, the correct answer encompasses both cracking and separation from shoes, which indicates oil