Brake & Front End Magazine Features New Reader Service Information Access
A digital version of the January issue of Brake & Front End is now available on-line. The easy-to-view digital version that features articles on Ford Focus alignment specs, SAE J2928 rotor testing, hub flange service and more! Plus, get instant access to advertisers and product information through our new “Rapid Response” program!
Advice from the Bendix Answerman: Brake Fluid Service as Important as Oil Changes
While some may think an old school “flush” will breathe new life into a braking system, Chuck Kennedy, technical trainer at Bendix Brakes says if one is performed without checking for contaminants already present, the braking system’s hydraulic control unit (HCU) can be seriously damaged. That’s why maintaining clean, contaminant-free brake fluid is just as important to a vehicle as getting regular oil changes.
Brake Tech Feature: Buick Lucerne Service
The 2006-current Buick Lucerne is the largest sedan that General Motors offers. It is built on the same line as the Cadillac DTS at the Hamtramck, MI, GM plant. The two vehicles share many brake components and the same Regular Production Option (RPO) codes for the brake system.
Brake Tech Feature: Rotors and Friction Service
Years ago, a brake replacement would pass muster if it allowed a vehicle to stop in a reasonable distance at highway speeds. Today, a brake replacement must meet consumer-oriented criteria in areas of braking noise, pedal sensitivity, side-to-side pulling, pedal pulsation, frictional qualities, fade resistance, wheel dusting and friction longevity.
Tech Feature: Disc Brake Caliper Service
In order to appreciate some of the fine points of disc brake repair, it’s important to review the basic elements of disc brake caliper service. Gary Goms uses a typical caliper service to illustrate some of the issues involved in disc brake service.
Brake & Wheel Bearing Service
Although wheel and drivetrain bearings generally last the life of the vehicle, they occasionally fail due to extreme loading, lack of lubrication, dirt and moisture contamination, and, of course, ordinary wear and tear. When discussing bearing wear, it’s important to understand that the function of the modern bearing is to maintain a perfect alignment and near-zero clearance between rotating parts.
Selling Services: Loaded Brake Calipers…Can They Boost Productivity?
Some technicians and parts professionals like loaded and semi-loaded calipers because almost everything they need comes in one box. They don’t have to worry about mismatched parts from different suppliers and the complete assemblies are quick and easy to install. Most importantly, they see fewer comebacks because of brake noise or other problems. Also, the
Electronic Brake Distribution: Emerging Technology Offers Service Opportunities
Say goodbye to mechanical brake proportioning valves, and say hello to Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). This new technology is yet another electronic enhancement that’s being added to many late-model vehicles. With conventional hydraulic brakes, a mechanical proportioning valve is used to reduce pressure to the rear wheels when the brakes are applied. Inside the proportioning
Truck Brake Update: Service Procedure Boosts Performance while Eliminating Steps that Add Time and Expense
Toyota trucks have been the standard bearer for small trucks for more than 40 years. The Hilux (now known as the Tacoma) line has been the small truck class leader, and over the last 15 years the T100 and Tundra models have moved into the medium- and full-size classes to set new standards there. With
Brake NVH: What Does Your Shop do When a Brake Complaint Due to Noise Enters the Service Bays?
What does your shop do when a brake complaint due to noise enters the service bays? Is it a mark of shame for the technician that hurts their productivity for the rest of the day by randomly applying lubes, pastes and sprays to the brake system in hopes that the problem is at least temporarily