Why Some Bearings Rarely Fail
No matter the type of bearing, they can fail for the same reasons.
VIDEO: Brake Rotor Safety Inspection
If there is any cracking, it can result in a structural failure of the rotor. This video is sponsored by ADVICS.
VIDEO: Lateral Runout Threshold For Bearing Replacement
Andrew Markel discusses wheel bearing replacement, how to measure for runout, and how much runout determines when a bearing needs replaced. Sponsored by BCA Bearings.
Curing Brake Pulsation And Judder Complaints Starts With The Customer
There is one golden question every service writer must ask the customer before recommending any brake service: “What difference have you noticed in your brakes recently?” This question does not lead the customer down any path, but forces them to explain how their brakes feel, sound and perform.
Building Brake Lathe Labor Sales
Many automakers are putting more “meat” on rotors compared to just a decade ago. Also, OE ceramic brake formulations are minimizing rotor wear due to less aggressive formulations that transfer a layer of friction material to the rotor. This means that rotors are lasting longer and seeing two or more sets of pads.
VIDEO: Measuring Flange Runout: Two Lug Nuts, Or Five?
Andrew Markel explains best practices for new brake rotor installation by checking flange runout with a certain amount of lug nuts attached and torqued. Sponsored by BCA Bearings.
Runout And DTV: Decreasing Comebacks With Two Simple Tools
Even if you use new rotors, your chance of a pulsation comeback could be greater than if you left the old rotors on the vehicle. Runout in the hub and new rotor can stack up to cause disc thickness variation (DTV) in a few thousand miles. DTV is the main cause of pulsation.
VIDEO: Wheel Bearing Runout
Andrew Markel shows how cleanliness is next to godliness when installing a new rotor on an existing hub and flange on a vehicle. Sponsored by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores.
Brake Runout TSBs on Pulsation: What do They Mean?
If you are combing through brake technical service bulletins (TSBs) on a repair information database, chances are you will come across a TSB discussing brake pedal pulsation (not warping). Most of the time, the TSB will outline new warranty procedures so the manufacturer can reimburse the dealership. Some recommend improved pads and rotors. Other TSBs
DTV Pulsation and BTV Judder Differences
Looking at the big picture of the measurements, vehicle and driver together is the only way to solve a customer complaint when it comes to brakes. Having the knowledge of what is happening between the rotor, pad and caliper is also key.
VIDEO: Disc Thickness Variation
Andrew Markel goes over the effects of disc thickness variation, where it comes from, and how to diagnose it.
VIDEO: Brake Torque Variation (BTV)
Andrew Markel describes brake torque variation, how it can be caused by customer habits, and how it can be prevented on every brake job.
