During a pre-hill inspection on a vehicle equipped with hydraulic brakes, what must you check?

During a pre-hill inspection on a vehicle equipped with hydraulic brakes, it is essential to check all the listed factors to ensure the vehicle is safe and functioning properly.

First, checking for adequate pedal reserve is crucial because it indicates that there is enough space for the brake pedal to move, ensuring that the brakes can engage fully without hitting the floor. This can prevent brake failure under heavy conditions, such as going downhill.

Second, ensuring that there are no hydraulic fluid leaks is imperative, as leaks can lead to a loss of brake pressure, compromising the braking system's effectiveness. Any significant leak can dramatically affect the vehicle's ability to stop, which is particularly critical when navigating hills.

Lastly, verifying that brake drums are not over-heated can indicate whether the brakes have been working properly and are not at risk of failure. Overheating can lead to brake fade, where the brakes become less effective due to excessive heat build-up.

Thus, checking all these factors contributes to a thorough and effective pre-hill inspection, ensuring the vehicle operates safely under challenging conditions.