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Re: "Nitrogen Ball"... (archive)
[ Follow Ups ] [ 8-series (E31) Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]
Posted by Jim S. on September 15, 2000 at 13:45:07:

In Reply to: "Nitrogen Ball"... posted by Justin on September 15, 2000 at 13:29:14:

Justin, it is also sometimes refered to as a "bomb" due to its round and black shape very similar to the old fuse bombs you used to see in cartoons. It is actaully a resevoir with a diaphram of rubber (synthetic or real I don't know) and filled with nitrogen. Your hydraulic system keeps it "charged" by pumping in hydro fluid that in turn compresses the nitrogen. It is used to help in braking under extremes and in the event that the engine shuts off you will still have the ability to stop the car. It is the reason that you are told to compress the brake pedal with full stopping pressure with the engine off (can't remember the number of times right now) anytime you want to work on the brake system or hydraulic system. The engine-stopped braking relieves the stored pressure in the nitrogen ball, which is more accurately called a pressure accumulator. Hope this helps.

Jim S.
'92 Laguna Green 850i 6spd.

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