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BRAKE PRO, LTD. TECH BULLETIN
For your information
| VOLUME 2, #8 |
INSPECTION AND MEASUREMENT OF BRAKE COMPONENTS
Each brake service or friction reline
requires that all components be of quality materials and specifications.
Before, during, and after the brake service or reline, measurements must
be taken to insure that all components are in the proper position and
aligned correctly. Inspection and measuring are essential to making sure
that all of the components will function as they were intended.
Some, but not all of the components we are talking about are as follows:
1. Brake spyder assembly: The brake spyder assembly is part of
the basic foundation of all the wheel-end brake components. It is designed
to keep all of the brake components in alignment with the brake drum.
Any bend or distortion will cause problems with braking ability and performance.
Part of the shop measuring equipment must include a good spyder gauge
for each spyder used or manufactured.
2. Brake drums: Brake drums are another key ingredient for a good
brake service. Brakes are a heat sink, plain and simple. The friction
material needs to get rid of heat to the brake drum, and the brake drum
dissipates it to the atmosphere. The thickness of the drum determines
how much heat can be dissipated during braking. If any drum is larger
than the other drum on an axle set, it can cause mild to severe problems.
3. Brake shoe stretch gauge: Brake shoe tables can become stretched,
twisted, and worn out from excessive heat. Before installation of the
brake shoes, it is very important to test the brake shoe table that your
friction material is attached to for the proper length and dimensions.
The size of the anchor-end pinhole is also critical to insuring brake
shoes are properly aligned. This is extremely important to good mileage
in friction material.
4. Measuring device for brake temperature: One of the most overlooked
devices that should be used in brake service is a thermal measuring device
to insure temperatures that are within the proper range for operation.
When friction material is evenly heated and evenly temperate, it can function
in an effective way. Even-in-range friction material is properly working
material.
