Re: Brakes

Posted by BH On 2010/2/19 10:50:29

Unfortunately, outside of some shops that cater specifically to the old car hobby, brake grinding has been a thing of the past for decades. I only bring the technique up when someone reports a problem after installing new linings.

Even though drum brakes continued to be used on rear axles for some time, and have recently returned in production of some pickups, most shops just let the new linings seat themselves. Of course, this is less critical on modern vehicles, since braking action is biased in favor of front disc brakes. Yet, in recent years, automakers recommend a burnishing (by driving) process for newly-installed disc brake pads prior to returning the vehicle to the customer.

While some suppliers once offered brake shoe linings with a crown-ground finish, even those might need some grinding to make them fully square square and concentric to an existing drum - even if not turned.

With all the restrictions imposed by the EPA, it's hard to imagine a highly-visible shop still having one of those old grinders. Yet, if you look hard enough, you might find a good old shop or hobbyist that does.

In the absence of a grinder, drive carefully and give the linings time (and extra stopping distance) to seat-in. Also, prior to installation, check the shoes on a surface plate or equivalent to make sure they're not twisted.