Tech Tip: Machining New Rotors Is Unnecessary
New quality rotors should simply be thoroughly washed and installed.
Tech Tip: Solving Common Brake Symptoms With Unique Solutions
Some vehicles have a history of brake-related problems, but there are some unique solutions to resolve those frustrating customer complaints.
Brake Job: Ford Fusion
In the short time the Fusion and its cousins have been on the road, there have not been any recalls or TSBs issued for the brake system. Customer and field reports are positive and there are very few reports for brake noise.
‘Brake’ the Audi Squeal Habit
Audi owners may complain of squealing brakes. This Tech Tip describes a procedure for reducing squeal and may be used for both front and rear disc brake systems.
Brake Job: Chrysler 300 + 300c, Dodge Magnum/Challenger/Charger Brakes
What do you get when you mix the front suspension from an Mercedes S-Class, the rear suspension from a E-Class and the transmission from a C-Class? The 2005-current Chrysler rear-wheel-drive LX-Platform.
The LX platform includes the 300, Magnum and Charger. In 2008, the platform was shortened for use in the LC-platform that was used in the Challenger platform. All have rear disc brakes with the parking/emergency brake mounted in the hat of the rear rotor.
Tech Feature: Nissan Brake and Suspension Repairs; Solving Noise Complaints
At first, you may not think brake and suspension systems are closely related. But when it comes to noise and vibration complaints, you don’t want to be looking at one without considering the other.
Tech Tip: Mazda MPV Brake Noise Keeps ‘Popping’ Up
Mazda MPV owners may complain about rear brake noise. While applying the brakes under normal stopping conditions, usually at low speeds, a metallic popping, clicking or squealing sound can be heard coming from the rear brakes. This may be caused by uneven contact between the brake lining and the brake drum.
Tech Tip: Toyota Matrix/Pontiac Vibe Brake Job
The 2004-2008 Pontiac Vibe and Toyota Matrix were produced in Fremont, CA, on the same production line. The vehicles are based on the Toyota Corolla platform and share the same braking system.
The front brakes for all models are for the most part the same (including all-wheel drive models). The only changes came in the configuration of the brake pad shims. The rear brakes can be either drum or disc and even some all-wheel-drive versions have drums.
Performance Brake Upgrades: Boosting Brake System Performance and Appearance
What type of customer is a likely prospect for brake upgrades? Those who tend to go through brakes rather quickly because of their driving habits, those who own sporty or performance import makes, and especially those who have already replaced their stock wheels with larger diameter aftermarket alloy wheels and low-profile tires.
Modern Brake Lathes Offer Speed, Ease of Use, Plus Added Features
If you haven’t shopped for a new brake lathe lately, you’ll be surprised by the fact that they are probably faster than the model you’re replacing. These new-age machines are also more accurate and can handle a wider array of vehicle applications. You’ll also be pleased to note that they are more durable than ever, and still quite easy to use.
Tech Tip: Taking Advantage of an On-Car Lathe
Well-maintained bench and on-car lathes can both do an excellent job of machining rotors. However, according to advice from the new Bendix Answerman, Chuck Kennedy, knowing when and how to use an on-car lathe can help eliminate wasted hours and extra work while also providing more accuracy and a better finish ….
Tech Tip: To Avoid Brake Comebacks, is it Better to Resurface or Replace?
Thanks to rising raw materials costs, there has been a steady increase in rotor prices, causing every link in the supply chain to adjust prices. Also, the cost to manufacture and ship rotors to your bay has increased dramatically. With that in mind, resurfacing can restore the friction surface on worn rotors to like-new condition, unless a rotor is worn down too far to be safely resurfaced or has cracks, deep grooves, severe rusting, hard spots or other structural defects ….