fékdugattyúk

Fékdugattyúk, commonly known as "clutch brakes" or "brake calipers" in English, refer to a type of mechanical braking system used primarily in older vehicles, particularly those manufactured in Hungary and other Eastern European countries. These brakes were designed to replace traditional drum brakes in the rear axle, offering improved stopping power and durability.

The name *fékdugattyú* translates to "brake piston" in English, as the system relies on hydraulic pressure acting on pistons to clamp brake pads against a rotating drum. Unlike modern disc brake systems, fékdugattyúk operate similarly to drum brakes but incorporate a piston mechanism to press the brake shoes outward, enhancing friction and braking efficiency. This design was particularly popular in the 1960s and 1970s, especially in vehicles like the Hungarian-made *Ural* trucks and some Soviet-era models.

The system consists of a cast-iron drum, brake shoes lined with friction material, and hydraulic pistons that press the shoes against the drum when the brake pedal is depressed. While more advanced than traditional drum brakes, fékdugattyúk were still less common in Western automotive designs, which favored disc brakes for better heat dissipation and performance.

Today, fékdugattyúk are largely obsolete in modern vehicle manufacturing, having been replaced by more efficient braking technologies. However, they remain of historical interest, particularly among enthusiasts of classic Eastern European automobiles. Maintenance involves regular inspection of brake linings, fluid levels, and piston function to ensure safe operation.