Definition
Rigid mechanical links used in some aircraft braking systems to transfer force from the pilot's brake pedal to the brake mechanism at the wheel. When the pedal is pressed, the push rod moves in a straight line to actuate the brake assembly directly, rather than transmitting force through hydraulic fluid or cables.
Plain English
Stiff metal rods that connect the brake pedal to the brake itself. Pressing the pedal pushes the rod, and the rod pushes the brake.
Context Anchor
Seen in landing gear, tire, and brake system descriptions, especially where pedal movement is connected to brake or gear-related hardware.
Derivation
The name describes the function plainly: a rod that pushes. It is included here only to confirm that there is no hidden technical meaning -- a push rod in this context is exactly what the words suggest.
Why Pilots Care
Reliable push rods ensure consistent brake response during landing and taxi, directly affecting stopping distance and directional control.
Analogy
A push rod works like a straight stick used to press a button from a short distance away: the stick does not create the force, but it carries your push to the button.
Intuition Check
Do not read push rods as rods the pilot directly pushes by hand. In this context, they are aircraft linkage parts that transfer a push between connected mechanical parts.
Example Sentence 1
Pressing the left brake pedal moves a push rod that applies the left main wheel brake.
Example Sentence 2
During inspection, the mechanic checked the push rods for bends that could reduce braking effectiveness.