Brake Hardware: Lessons Learned From a Little Piece of Wire
Every technician has struggled with those little wire clips that push the pads onto the pistons on first-generation Mazda Miatas. Those little clips that barely fit into the painted-over holes on the new pads and can shoot across the shop like a rubber band can make a big difference. One racecar builder who specializes building
This is a Great Time for the Brake Industry
As the editor of BRAKE & FRONT END, I make it a point to try out as many friction materials as possible. I have tried $20 pads, and expensive performance pads that can cost as much as $180 a set. I fint it amazing what a great set of brake pads or shoes can do
Brake Dynamometer Testing: One Test is Worth a Thousand Expert Opinions
Some friction material companies market their products by saying they are third-party tested or tested on their own brake dynamometer. But, understanding what this really means is tough if you do not understand how a brake dynamometer operates. In the engine performance world, an engine dynamometer is associated with measuring performance. Brake dynamometers also measure
Steering Racks: Leak Diagnosis & Repair
Power steering is a wonderful invention, especially for those who lack upper body strength or have puny arms. Years ago it was considered a luxury option mostly for elderly people who drove big Buicks, Cadillacs, Lincolns and Imperials. But today, everybody wants effortless steering, whether they drive an econocar or a three-ton SUV. Consequently, virtually
Rotor Metallurgy
In the past few years, the prices of rotors seem to be dropping. Call just about any parts supplier and they can quote you a vast range of prices for the same application. When you compare the rotors side-by-side, they may look the same. But, the difference between a comeback and satisfied customer might be
Rotors and Pads: Analyzing Replacement Options
Although the industry has seen anti-lock braking systems (ABS) become standard equipment on modern imports, the majority of brake service still focuses on the replacement of brake pads and rotors. Rotor replacement, of course, has changed because new rotors have become a more cost-effective method of resolving pedal pulsation and brake shimmy problems associated with
Medium-Duty Truck Clutch Repair
What is a medium-duty truck? The industry defines it as a vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight of 14,000 to 26,000 lbs. At 14,000 lbs., most heavy-duty one-ton trucks qualify as a medium duty vehicle. In light- and medium-duty trucks, the automatic transmission is ever increasing in popularity and numbers. So why am I talking
Brake System Service: Eliminating Noise and Vibration Problems
Brake noise and vibration are two things few people will tolerate for very long ‹ especially owners of high-performance European sports cars and luxury sedans that are renowned for their eye-popping stopping power. People who spend upward of $30,000 or more for an upscale Asian or European nameplate usually expect their brakes to be quiet.
Oil Pumps & the Engine’s Lubrication System
p can restore gear-to-gear clearances but not gear-to-housing clearances. The end plate that covers the pump often develops a heavy wear pattern that is most noticeable on the outlet gear side. Regrinding the face of the plate smooth can restore end play tolerances between the plate and gears but it can’t compensate for wear inside
Carley’s Corner: Smoother Surface Finishes for Today’s Engines
As engine technology continues to advance, so do the surface finish requirements for many of today’s gaskets. Some engines today require an almost mirror-like finish on the cylinder head and block deck surfaces to seal the head gasket – which means many machine shops may need to upgrade their surfacing equipment to achieve the smoother