Best Tips for Brake Pads Replacement on a Vehicles

You are driving on the highway at a speed of 100 Kmph and suddenly a dog darts in front of your car, what do you do? Obviously, you are going to apply the brakes to stop the car. Sounds easy, but is it that simple? Well, there is a lot more that goes into just stepping on the pedal to stop the vehicle. With this in view, you need to ensure that your brake pads are always in excellent condition. If you hear any squeaking and grinding sound from your vehicle, especially when you stomp on the brake pedal, do know that it’s time for brake pad replacement.

Signs that brake pads need to be replaced

- When you press on the brake pedal with your foot and the brake pedal starts pulsating or vibrating, you know for sure that your vehicle needs new brake pads. Brake pads get worn out over a period of time due to heat and they start pulsating. Be sure to take your vehicle to the mechanic who will re-machine your brake pads to solve the problem. If your brake pads are completely worn out and cannot be re-machined then you will have to replace your old brake pads with new ones.

- When you apply pressure on your brake pedal and it makes a clicking sound, it is definitely a sign that you need to replace your brake pads. Yes, manufacturers make sure that all vehicles are installed with a device that prevents the brake pads from clicking or rattling upon applying pressure on the brake pedal, but if it still makes the sound then you know for sure that the brake pads replacement.

- Apart from the clicking or rattling sound does your vehicle make a high-pitched screeching sound when you depress your brakes fully? What causes this sound? Well, when a small metal shim comes in contact with the brake rotor, this causes an unpleasant sound which is a definite indicator that your brake pads are worn out and you need to replace them.

- Do you hear a grinding or growling sound from your brakes when you apply pressure? Well, that’s a bad sign! The metal disc and the metal caliper are rubbing together; this is the sound of metal on metal. It means that not only are your brake pads completely worn out and need replacement but you also need to replace your rotors or get them fine-tuned by your trusted and qualified mechanic. Given these conditions, do look after your vehicle; do not let it reach a point where your brakes start to make a grinding or growling sound.

- Do you drive your own vehicle? If yes then you should know your vehicle well and should be able to do some minor repair work as and when required. There are some visual signs that indicate that your brake pads need replacement; for instance, when the brake pads are severely worn out then they are deep groove marks that are visible on the rotor and they look like the grooves on a gramophone record. If these grooves become deep then you will have to replace the rotor too. Therefore, you must try and do a thorough visual check-up of your brake pads so that they can be replaced in time.

- Is your vehicle pulling to one side of the road? This could mean that your brake pads need to be replaced. While applying brakes if your car is pulling to one side of the road even without turning the steering wheel then it is an indication that your brake pads are wearing out unevenly and brake pad replacement is essential.

Tools Required to Change the Brake Pads on your Own

Yes, it’s not that difficult! Maintenance work on your car costs money, so why not learn to do some of these small jobs yourself. It will definitely save you a lot of your hard earned money. Brake pad replacement is not tough; you can definitely do it yourself with the help of some tools. If you own a vehicle then you need to own a few tools that will come handy in times of need.

- You must keep the owner’s manual of your vehicle safely so that when you are trying to do some small repair work on your vehicle you will know where your vehicles jack points are, what is the weight of your vehicle, and what is the thickness of the rotor among other details.

- You need to buy a floor jack and a jack stand and keep it around so that when you need to replace your brake pads these tools come handy. The floor jack is used to raise the vehicle and the jack stand would help to keep the vehicle in the air for you to do all your repair work. It is advisable to buy a jack stand that can handle the weight of your vehicle easily.

- Always keep extra brake pads for your vehicle at home, so that if there is an emergency then you can change them without having to make a trip to the auto spare parts shop. Yes, a brake tool is important; this tool will adjust the brake caliper piston to the new brake pads that you are going to install on your vehicle. Once you have installed the new brake pads, you need to apply brake grease between the brake pads and the calipers. A socket wrench and a tire iron are some other handy tools that you need to keep in your garage to do all the small repair and maintenance on your vehicle. It is a one-time investment that will definitely save you a lot of money in the future.

Brake Rotors Replacement Made Easy for Your Vehicles

What most people don’t realize is that owning an automobile is a long term investment. It doesn’t matter what kind of vehicle our purchase as long as you pledge to keep your vehicle in good working condition. This includes regular maintenance, replacing faulty parts at the earliest and keeping track of the overall condition of the vehicle. Brake rotors replacement is one such often overlooked feature that most vehicle owner’s fall trap to. Brakes are among the most important safety features of a vehicle and they should be serviced and replaced as per the manufacturer’s instructions in order to ensure optimal stopping power for your vehicle.

Has your rotor run its life?

The rotor is the eternal part of the braking system. It is shaped like a slat bottomed bowl; it houses the brake shoes, spring and the caliper system within it. When you apply the brakes, the brake shoes expand and clasp the rotors, which in turn slow down the vehicle. Both the rotors and the brake pads are designed to evenly dissipate heat generated during the braking action. Braking action is also quite abrasive, and the friction will wear out the brake pads and the rotors eventually, even with normal use of brakes.

Thus it is important to have brake rotors replacement at high priority, especially during your timely maintenance works. This will help keep your vehicle in optimal drivable condition which will keep you extra safe when you need to brake unexpectedly while on the move. Remember, failure to replace faulty brakes at the earliest can prove costly in more ways than one. It will not only decrease your vehicle’s stopping power- which can result in fatal accidents, but will also wear out your wheels and affect the suspensions as well. Thus you will be putting your vehicle and its occupants/ cargo in grave danger when you opt to drive around with a spent braking system in place.

Detecting bad rotors

Being able to look for and accurately identify how bad the rotors are is an essential skill for any vehicle owner. As a driver, you will be taking out the vehicle on a regular basis and hence it will become difficult for you to find when the brake pads and rotors have gone beyond safe values. Brake pads need to be replaced even if they wear out even 1/4^th of an inch. For this very reason, brake manufacturers incorporate a tiny metal plate beneath the braking abrasive of the brake pads. As the brake pad material erodes with time, this metal shim makes a high pitched sound when it comes in contact with the brake rotors, thus indicating that it is time to replace your brakes.

Another way to find out if your brakes are wearing is by taking your vehicle out on an empty road for a test drive. Once you get up to 30mph, brake heavily. A good set of brakes should hold well and not lead to vibrations or squealing of tires during this test. Else, it is time to replace your brakes at the earliest.

Why you need to replace brake pads regularly

Replacing your brakes at regular intervals before your brakes are pushed to the ultimate limit is essential to avoid bigger damages to your braking unit. Faulty brake rotors can severely hamper how the brake pads and other associated units operate. Ignoring the symptoms that brake pads presents can lead to bigger mechanical problems that might get out of hand faster than you’d expect.

Choosing the right rotors

In some cases, you might not always find it convenient to replace your rotors even though it has been worn out. Most people resort to replacing their rotors with cheaper ones or they may even forgo replacing rotors in favor of just the brake pads, hoping that something is better than nothing. This however, is only a temporary relief. In fact, this can actually be more detrimental to your vehicle’s safety in the long run.

Since brake pads rely on friction for optimal performance, substandard or damaged brake rotors that use inferior material in manufacturing will only wear out faster, thus putting your vehicle at a safety risk. Damaged rotors do not offer the necessary stopping power for your vehicle, even with brand new or quality brake pads.

When brakes are applied, the brake pads expand to meet the inner walls of the rotors. Logic dictates that the brake pads come in contact with the closest surface of the brake rotors. Improper contact between the brake rotors and the brake pads will also increase the heat generated during the braking action, which will further foster the wearing of your braking system. Thus, any defect in the rotors will misshapen the rotors and the brake pads will not have enough surface area contact, which will not only speed up wearing of the brake pads but will also reduce your braking action.

How to choose the right brake rotors

If you are unsure of what you need to buy then your best bet would be to hire the services of an expert. Your local mechanic should be of service when choosing the right brake parts. He will dismantle your brake set up and will assess the specific component requirement. If you own an older model of braking system, then your mechanic will be able to find a suitable replacement that offers the same or better quality braking.

When looking for a brake rotors replacement, it is important to adhere to the specifications provided by the vehicle manufacturers. You may also opt for a higher grade rotor as well, as long as it is a snug fit for your vehicle. Choosing an apt set of brake pads and rotors will help keep your vehicle in good working condition while increasing the safety levels on the road. Even after replacing your brake rotors and pads you should always take care of all kinds of technical maintenance in order to keep your brakes in good working order.

So, are you ready to deploy these tips and tricks to keep your automobile in good order? You may want to get in touch with professional technicians to get the job underway; contact one today.

Front and Rear Brake Pads

 

Automobile braking technology had undergone two significant enhancements during the recent past. The first occurred in the late thirties when Pascal’s Principle (in regard to hydraulics) was applied through installation of one Master Cylinder (linked to the brake pedal) and 4 Slave Cylinders installed on the 4 wheels, connected by flexible pipes. When the whole system was filled with hydraulic fluid and pressure applied to the Master Cylinder through the brake pedal, it immediately affected all the Slave Cylinders at equal force. In other words, when you stepped on your car’s brake pedal, all four wheels would slow down or stop, while the system became known as Drum Brake since it worked by way of Brake Shoes pressing against the brake drum and so reducing/ halting the momentum.

The other enhancement occurred much later when it was observed that as cars became more powerful and faster, drum brakes failed to provide adequate stopping power due to their design and structure. Also, they tended to overheat, thus becoming less responsive. As an answer to this inadequacy, a wholly new technology began to evolve in the shape of Disc Brake, where a disc or rotor attached to the hub is pinched or squeezed by a caliper with Brake Pads installed within it.

Difference between front and rear Brake Pads

Technically speaking, there isn’t much of a difference between front and rear brake pads installed in cars that feature Disc Brakes in both front and rear, save and except a slight variation in the rear for fixing the parking brake cable. However, when considering the braking system that is extensively used in contemporary cars that have disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear, there is a gulf of difference between the two. In fact, it may require a marginal alteration in the title that should read Difference between Front brake Pads and Rear Brake Linings, instead of Difference between Front and Rear Brake Pads.

Brake linings mounted on Shoes featuring Drum Brakes at rear

Brake linings mounted on Brake Shoes are resistant to heat, while featuring high friction coefficient least affected by fluctuations in humidity, temperature or other elements. Materials normally used for manufacturing these components include friction modifiers, powdered metal such as zinc, brass, lead, aluminum as well as other materials that resist heat fade, binders, curing agents and fillers like rubber chips that tend to lessen brake noise.

Incidentally, the higher friction contact area of the lining mounted on drum brake shoes on the brake drum makes them more long lasting as compared to disc brake pads in any braking system of similar dimension and braking force.

Brake Pads featuring Disc Brakes at front

Brake Pads posses the unique quality of converting the kinetic energy of a vehicle to thermal energy through friction. Two brake pads contained in the brake caliper facing each other with the rotor in between them can clamp and squeeze the spinning rotor when brakes are applied hydraulically via the flexible brake hose. While the technology totally differs from that used in drum brakes, the pads too differ in shape, size and formation. What’s more, when a brake pad gets hot by coming into contact with the spinning rotor, they transfer minute quantity of friction material to the rotor body, as a result of which they tend to ‘stick’ to each other that slows or stops the rotor, as also the vehicle.

However, Rear Brake Pads are available in several varieties and types that are outlined below.

Non-metallic Brake Pads that are made from an amalgamation of several synthetic materials are effective for a limited period. However, they are gentle on rotors.

Fully metallic Brake Pads that are made from sintered steel are much more durable, but again are very hard on rotors. However, these are ideally suited to the requirement of racing cars.

Ceramic Brake Pads that are composed of clay and porcelain (and are burnt in a kiln) has the durability of fully metallic brake pads, while featuring the grip and fade resistance of the synthetic type, and so are cherished by all but bought by few because of their high price range.

Postscript

Studies reveal that Brake Pads for Disc Brakes in the front and Brake Linings mounted on brake shoes for drum brakes in the rear seldom go out of order concurrently. However, even if such a situation ever arises, the best course of action (in regard to Disc Brakes) would be to follow the car manufacturer’s specifications.

Semi-metallic brake pads – The new age replacement components!

Made mostly of metal shavings of brass, copper, steel, graphite and bonded with high quality resin, Semi-metallic Brake Pads are best suited for small/medium sized cars that are routinely used on daily basis. These brake pads are also well suited for trucks or similar heavy duty vehicles that need strong braking power. They last longer too, since they are primarily made of tough metal. What’s more, they are more cost effective, as compared to ceramic brake pads, their lordly cousins.

As replacement component, semi-metallic brake pads prove highly effective as current day manufacturers employ state-of-the-art technology, such as high pressure molding process to bond the friction piece to the backing plate. This ensures consistent frictional density through the surface, even wear and longer life.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Economical – Semi-metallic brake pads are lower priced as compared to their ceramic counterparts, while there is such a wide array of after market products that you could always select a set, matching your budget. Moreover, these are available for almost all brands of cars, vans and SUVs.

Better grip – Semi-metallic brake pads provide better grip even when cold. This becomes very helpful if you happen to reside in colder regions, such as in around Laramie, Wyoming, Low Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Duluth, Minnesota or Bozeman, Montana.

Suitable for frequent braking – Semi metallic brake pads prove pretty effective on short trips across town, such as visiting the druggist or buying groceries. This benefit accrues out of the fact that these pads work fine even when cold, whereas ceramic [pads hardly get a chance to worm up while the vehicle stops so frequently to start again.

Reduced vibration – Some after market Semi-metallic brake pads are provided with Metal shims that reduce vibration, thus producing noise-free braking.

Cons

Shorter lifespan – Alas, despite having so many plus points, Semi-metallic brake pads do not last as long as their ceramic counterparts and so require frequent replacements. However, market survey reports vouchsafe that a replacement set lasts well over 30,000 miles.

Too much brake dust – Semi metallic brake pads give out too much brake dust, as compared to other types of brake pads. Even though this does not cause any health hazard, it spoils the wheels, especially fashionable alloy wheels, and unless these are regularly cleaned, are likely to ruin their look.

Bit noisy – Especially after some use. This happens because of the frictional properties of these brake pads.

Not gentle on the rotors – Because of the very nature of the materials with which Semi-metallic brake pads are made, the friction with rotor when brakes are applied create excessive heat and consequent damage to the rotor.

Brief comparison with Ceramic Brake pads

Almost ninety percent of cars, vans and trucks you see on the roads these days are equipped with Semi-metallic brake pads. In fact, these are now considered as standard factory installed brake pads, regardless of whether it is a sedan, convertible or a SUV.

Consequently, owners, too follow suit while replacing worn out brake pads. Semi-metallic brake pads are also used extensively on account of their pocket-friendly price structure. However, most of them tend to spend more money in not too distant future by overlooking the fact that these brake pads are not so kindly to the rotors that cost much more than the pads.

Ceramic brake pads, on the other hand can save the owners from this menace as they cause minimal damage to the rotor because of the very structure and the material they are made of. Consisting mostly of ceramic fiber, filling material and non-harming bonding agents, these brake pads feature amazing heat dispersing quality, as a result of which vehicles can be stopped even when driven very fast, without causing any harm to the rotors. However, the downside with ceramic brake pads is their high price, which often discourages price conscious yet quality negligent component buyers.

How Do you Know you Need Brake Replacement?

Maintaining the brakes is an important safety feature for any vehicle owner. Just as the gas mileage varies depending on how or where you drive so does the usage of your brakes. However, most drivers overlook brake maintenance even though they know they can get cheap car brake pads. If the brake system is maintained, you will avoid costly repairs. Unfortunately, there isn’t a clear-cut schedule that lets you know when to replace the brake pads. It is a must for you to pay attention to your car brake pads conditions. This signs will help you in identifying if the brakes pads need to be replaced.

Brake pads are too thin

You need to pay close attention to visual cues. Look at your current brake pads through the car wheel spokes to see if they need to be changed. The outer brake pad is visible because the material presses against a brake disc (metal rotor). If less than a quarter an inch is visible, know that your front brake pads are fragile and you have to change them. Some new cars today have dash lights that get turned on if the brake pads are worn out. Another option is to look on the outside to check if brake dust has been building up. The dust darkens the hubcaps and wheels, signifying that your brakes are worn out.

 

The brake pedal keeps vibrating

If your brake pedal is pulsating each time you press your foot on it, then that’s a sign you need new brake pads. Pulsating brakes is the constant grabbing or the brake vibration a driver feels when they try to apply brakes. This is often caused by warped brake pads due heat or by worn out brake pads. In some cases, rear brake pads can be re-machined, and the problem gets solved. But if they can’t be re-machined, you really need to buy brake pads.

Brakes making a clicking sound

If your brakes make a clicking noise each time you apply the brakes, then you know you have a problem. Car manufacturers always install a device that stops the brake pads from rattling. The moment you hear a clicking or rattling noise upon the depression of your brakes, know that you need new brake pads.

Brakes making a screeching sound

Other than the clicking or rattling noise, a driver must listen for a screeching sound that is often high-pitched. This screeching noise is made when the car’s brake pedal is pushed down fully. The unpleasant sound is made by a small metal shim that surrounds the brake pads. It acts as an indicator for alerting drivers to replace their brake pads. The sound pitch varies, but you will hear it when your windows are up, and your music isn’t loud. So keep listening!

Brakes make a grinding sound

If you detect a growling or grinding sound each time you press the brake pedal, then you know everything isn’t fine. The brake pads are not the only parts that need to be replaced this time. This sound is produced by the brake caliper and the brake disc rubbing together, indicating that your brake pads are completely worn down. In this case, you may have to replace your brake discs too or have them checked by a qualified mechanic. But if you check and replace your brake pads regularly, you won’t have to incur extra costs replacing more expensive brake parts like the brake discs. Just get cheap car brake pads for your car.

The vehicle is pulling

Although a car pulling to a certain side of the road may indicate different things, as the wheel alignment is out, it may also mean that the brake pads need replacing. If your car is pulled to one side and you haven’t used the steering wheel when applying the brakes, then this shows that your brake pads are worn down unevenly. But if the car pulls as you drive at a constant speed and you haven’t applied brakes, this pulling indicates another repair issue.

The more you know about your car’s condition, the more you can plan on how to replace the necessary parts in time. In case you are not sure of what to look out for, or you just don’t want to take the responsibility, make sure your brakes are checked the next time you go for the regular car maintenance. Many shops can check the condition of your brake pads for free and advise you accordingly. The sooner you address worn out brakes, the less costs you will incur, and you will be safe. You can get cheap car brake pads from us.

Source:http://www.sooperarticles.com/automotive-articles/cars-articles/how-do-you-know-you-need-brake-replacement-1540340.html

Brake Shoes Replacement- A Step towards your Safety

 

Before going into the details of brake shoes replacement, it is important to know more about the automobile part. Brakes shoes are fitted to the rear wheels of a vehicle and forms an essential part of the brake system. The moment driver steps on the brake; the brake shoes hit the drums and slacken the pace of the car.

Why should you indulge in Brake Shoes Replacement?

Brake shoes replacement is necessary to stop the noise created in the rear brakes. For proper functioning of the hand brake, brake shoes require immediate change. Apart from the mentioned uses, it controls a vehicle and any kind of wear and tear in it, leads to shaking of the car when brakes are applied. Besides, brake shoes replacement is closely associated with proper functioning of a car. There are times when you will experience loss of grip while not only driving but also pulling the brakes of your car. It also becomes difficult to stop the car you are controlling which is quite dangerous. Hence, drivers change it for safety issues.

A comparison between ceramic and semi-metallic brake shoes

Presently, two kinds of brakes shoes have gained significant popularity among drivers. For brake shoes replacement, people are now picking on ceramic ones that last longer without emitting brake dust.

On the contrary, brake shoes replacement is carried out using semi-metallic pads, which are highly durable. The presence of thermal threshold in it leads to firm braking which is why drivers choose it for their vehicles.

When it comes to comparison of the two types, semi-metallic brake shoes have an advantage over the other. It hardly requires frequent replacement like ceramic ones and is cheaper. Its flexibility in terms of usage in both small vehicles and large trucks is highly commendable.

However, in terms of cleanliness, ceramic brake shoes enjoy an extra point because of fewer dust emissions. Moreover, during brake shoes replacement, people often select ceramic ones since it makes less of noise.

A comparison between the two kinds of brake shoes for replacement is highly necessary in order to understand which one is suitable for your car. You need to choose wisely as these matters the most from the perspective of safety.

Which kind of brake shoes should you choose for replacement?

For brakes shoes replacement, there is a constant tussle between ceramic and semi-metallic brake pads. You will always have to compromise with better functioning or durability if you select one instead of the other. If you desire something, which is clean, you will have to sacrifice on better performance. This promptly points towards ceramic brake shoes. Again, if you long for a brake shoe that has an extraordinary stopping power, then you will have to forgo the one that causes less of screeches. This again reveals the positive and negative sides of semi-metallic brake shoes.

The entire task of choosing between the two is quite a tough job. Both come with their part of benefits and own set of issues. Therefore, for brake shoes replacement, you need to decide on either performance or willingness to spend on it. While ceramics are highly priced, semi-metallic brake shoes are quite abrasive.

Conclusion

The article not only creates awareness regarding brake shoes and its types but also smartly delivers the message as to why brake shoes replacement is necessary. After all, it all about safety and as long as you are secure, money hardly matters. So, change your brake shoes timely for avoiding road accidents.

Source:http://www.artipot.com/articles/2038349/brake-shoes-replacement-a-step-towards-your-safety.htm

Easy Tips To Get Quality Brake Pads and Parts Online

The internet has made it easy to get both variety and quality Brake Pads and Parts Online. This option is convenient especially because you order your parts at any time and from any location. The main issues surrounding online purchase include getting the quality you desire and the exact specifications. It might also take time to have the parts delivered which may delay repair or maintenance of your vehicle. However, this is the most cost effective way of getting high quality parts, even the most rare. How then do you ensure that you get quality parts online?

• Research Before Buying

There are numerous websites offering car parts. Some are run by manufacturers, others by dealers and even by junk yards. The deal you get will depend on the website you select. A site that is operated by a manufacturer guarantees quality parts and all the specifications you need. However, the physical location could too far that it takes longer to get the parts delivered. A dealer may add his commission on the price, making it more expensive compared to other outlets. On the other hand, dealers have a network that allows you to get the rarest parts at an affordable price. Junk yards sell parts from used cars. Their prices are very attractive. They are also likely to have the rarest parts at an affordable price. However, the fact that they are used may reduce their lifespan.

• Know What You are Buying

Get the full details of the part you are buying. There are glaring similarities between parts that using images may mislead you. Slight variations in specifications may cause the vehicle to malfunction. Inquire whether the part is new or from a used car. The lifespan of used parts is lower compared to new ones, though the price is high. The cost of shipping and dealership commission might also raise the price. Consider these factors when ordering Brake Pads and Parts Online.

• Buy Directly From Manufacturers

Manufacturers guarantee the exact part and excellent quality. They may also suggest new models or modified parts that are energy efficient and cost effective. You are sure of buying genuine parts whenever you order from a manufacturer. The challenge with manufacturers is distance which may increase the cost of shipping. Some manufacturers have dealerships and franchises in neighborhoods from where you can pick your parts. In case the parts are rare or out of the market, a manufacturer may mold it for you. You are unlikely to miss any part when ordering through the manufacturer.

• Insist on a Warranty

A warranty is a guarantee that you have bought a quality part. It also shows the willingness of a seller to stand by his product. It is a guarantee for excellent value for money. With a warranty, you will not have to spend money on replacement if the part breaks down. This will save you a lot on maintenance cost during the period covered by the warranty.

• Check for Coupons

The price of buying parts online could be prohibitive. However, this should not deter you from going for the best parts. Dealers and sellers have offers that allow you to access high quality parts at a reduced price. The coupons could be based on overall price, specific parts, seasonal offers and introductory pricing, among other options. Coupons make repair and maintenance of your vehicle easy and affordable.

• If the Parts are Rare, Buy in Person

Rare parts are the most tricky to buy. They are easily imitated and may cause a lot of damage on the vehicle if they do not fit. It is therefore advisable to buy these parts in person. You will be sure that you are getting the exact part and a genuine one for that matter. In case you buy brake pads online, get an assurance that you can return it at no cost if it does not meet your expectations. You would rather spend time and money on transport other than extend the damage on your vehicle by buying the wrong parts.

• When All Fails, Enlist the Services of a Dealer

Searching for some parts may prove time consuming and expensive. Though dealers will charge a commission for delivering the parts, they are a convenient option when searching for parts. Dealers use their networks to get even the rarest of vehicle parts.

Buying Brake Pads and Parts Online remain the most convenient and cost effective way. Dealer websites ship the exact product indicated online. 

Source:  http://articles.abilogic.com/189717/easy-way-get-quality-brake.html

How to Choose the Most Suitable Brake Rotor Pattern

The main components of a brake system are the calipers, brake pads, and rotors (disc). Each time the brake is depressed, the brake fluid pressure increases in the lines controlling the calipers. This makes them tighten around the disc. As time goes by, rotors and brake pads wear down as a result of the friction and heat they are subjected to each time you stop. If you allow your brake pads to wear down completely, the rotor gets damaged.

The type of rotor you will opt for will depend on your budget, the type of vehicle and your driving habits. Usually, rotors are replaced when worn. However, some vehicles –high performance or sports cars – will need new rotors to offer better braking performance, even if the old ones aren’t worn.

There are various types or rotors you can choose from. You need to understand them and know their pros and cons to make an informed choice.

Slotted rotors

This type of rotor has slots that resemble lines in the metal. They are suitable for street performance, towing /hauling, autocross/ track or off-road.

Advantages

Slotted rotors will work well for SUVs, heavy trucks, competition cars and tow trucks. It’s important for you to get quality brake rotors if you choose the slotted style. In case the disc isn’t properly machined, it can crack sooner than later.

This type of rotor delivers better consistency with each stop because the contact in brake pads is reduced. Over time, the slotted rotors still perform well. Each time the slots shave down, a new material is exposed as you brake. This means you can depend on these pads to offer effective braking even with heavy duty vehicles.

Disadvantages

Despite being so useful, slotted rotors have drawbacks. Their life span is shorter compared to other types and can shorten the lifespan of brake pads too.

Drilled rotors

You can easily recognize them since they have holes in the metal. They are the best for street performance.

Advantages

If the area you live in experiences lots or rain, your best option is the drilled rotors. They can perform well in such climates because they offer an excellent holdup and deliver more friction. The bite is better as the drilled holes provide space for the water to escape. This dries off the components of the braking system. Less water means you get a better bite and the brake pads and rotors performance improves.

Disadvantages

Even though the drilled rotors are often recommended because of their performance, they tend to wear unevenly and can develop cracks if used in racing vehicles. The cracks are caused by the temperature and heat extremes of a race. This means that they are a poor choice for any racing vehicle and will fail sooner than expected.

Drilled and slotted rotors

They have both slot markings and drill markings and are suitable for towing/hauling, off road or street performance.

Advantages

This type of rotor offers all the benefits of the drilled and slotted rotor. They perform well but not necessarily better compared to the other types. You will notice this new brake motors on various luxury cars, including BMW and Mercedes. If you are consistent with maintenance, stick to the drilled and slotted rotor especially if they were original to your vehicle. The rotors work well for trucks, tow vehicles and cars that carry heavier loads. Heavy vehicles require a lot of energy to stop safely and this type excels at delivering this.

Disadvantages

This type of rotor is not recommended for racing cars because the drilling will make the disc vulnerable to cracking.

Blank or smooth rotors

This rotor has a plain surface with no markings or holes in the metal. They are perfect for off-road, towing, autocross/track and street performance.

Advantages

Many new cars have blank rotors installed in them for cost effectiveness and maximum efficiency across different driving conditions. If you are not an aggressive driver, own a luxury car, or you need a quiet rotor above all, go for smooth rotors. It’s also a top choice for racers because it can hold through the entire race. This type also works well for other needs and lasts longer. Without any slots or holes, cracks rarely develop.

Disadvantages

Some drivers think that the other types perform better than blank rotors, but that isn’t true. All that matters is your driving style.

No matter the type you choose, ensure you pay attention to how your vehicle breaks. As the brake system ages, plan ahead and get replacement parts from reliable suppliers or manufacturers like us. If combined well, rotors and brake pads will assist you to stay safe as you drive.

Source:  http://brakeneeds.livejournal.com/2471.html

Better, Organic and Semi Metallic Brake Pads Features in Vehicles

Semi-metallic brake pads are quite effective for most cars, while their low pricing factor make them quite alluring for most motorists. Maybe , these are not as perfect as Ceramic pads, but they are not as expensive as Ceramics.

There is no denying of the fact that the use of disc brakes has revolutionized the braking system in automobiles, reducing the risk of road accidents to a great extent. No wonder most contemporary cars have disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on rear wheels, while some have disc brakes on both and rear wheels.

The task of disc brake manifests in decelerating the vehicle in a safe and trouble-free way, bringing it to dead stop, if necessary. The process entails converting the kinetic energy due to friction between the brake pads and the rotor disc into thermal energy. Consequently, it generates heat and plenty of dust (known popularly as Brake Dust). Needless to say, the brake pads play a vital role here and so the material used for manufacturing the brake pad has to be tough enough to withstand the heat and at the same time help prolong the life of the rotor disc. In order to achieve high levels of safety, brake pads must also combine a constant friction value known as friction coefficient along with optimum mechanical strength and temperature resistance power.

Types of Brake Pads often used in Disc Brakes

Organic Brake Pad

Many cars come with factory assembled disc brakes having Organic Brake Pads that are made of Kevlar fiber, glasses, resins and rubber. This results in low rotor disk wear, quiet operation but high amount of brake dust.

Ceramic Brake Pad

Ceramic brake pads do better than Organic Brake Pads in many respects that include better high temperature braking, lower pad wear and reduced brake dust generation.

Semi Metallic Brake Pad

To be honest about it, Semi-metallic and metallic brake pads are suitable for most cars that are used on a daily basis in cities and suburbs. Ergo, these are also found suitable for high performance racing cars. Also, these pads demonstrate good braking power in low temperature, lower rotor disc wear but louder noise during operation. As for the type of material that goes for the Manufacture of these pads, carbon-fiber is often blended into these to change their optimum heat ranges, as well as friction and wear properties. At the same time, Semi-Metallic pads are cost effective and also contain fine metal fibers. However, we might as well take a sneak peek at some of the pros and cons of Semi-Metallic Brake Pads that are listed below

Pros

First of all, semi metallic brake pads are cheaper than Ceramic Brake pads. In fact, there are many brands and qualities that would suit your selection and pocket. Nevertheless, these have high static friction coefficient, provide excellent brake performance in both wet and dry conditions and are asbestos free.

Also, semi-metallic brake pads provide effective grip even in cold temperature. This is a key issue if you live in colder regions and need shorter driving trips.

Cons

Semi metallic brake pads may be cheap as compared to Ceramic Brake Pads, but not as durable as the latter. However, a set will last you for well over 30, 000 miles. Semi-metallic brake pads also generate too much brake dust and as a result, you get more dirty wheels to clean.

Semi-metallic brake pads create more noise than their Ceramic counterparts, due mostly to their frictional nature. However, people often ignore the issue in the face of lesser money spent on them.

Postscript

To be precise, while Ceramic brake pads are ideally suited for small cars, Semi-metallic brake parts are best suited to larger vehicles such as pickups, minivans and SUVs.

Source: https://brakeneeds.wordpress.com/2016/11/15/better-organic-and-semi-metallic-brake-pads-features-in-vehicles/

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Semi Metallic Brake Pads - A Closer Look for Auto Operators and Owners

Semi metallic brake pads are among the most widely used brake pads in the world. They are the preferred types of brake pads in almost every commercial vehicle these days. Read on to know more about these robust brake pads.

A car is a magnificent piece of engineering. The amount of research that goes into the design and manufacture of every minute aspect of a vehicle is mind-boggling. Sadly, not may appreciate the intricacies of this engineering and only have a regard for the final product and their functionality. Take brake pads for example. The primary requirement for an efficient baking system is a firm, yet smooth braking capabilities over a wide temperature range and varied road conditions. Today, auto markets are flooded with a variety of consumer grade brake pads - from organic brake pads and semi metallic brake pads to ceramic brake pads that feature their own set of pros and cons. The choice in material dictates the friction of the pads, which in turn is responsible for the stopping power of the brake pads.

What is a brake pad?

A disc brake pad comprises of friction materials mounted on a sturdy steel backing plate. Each wheel has two brake pads contained in the brake caliper on either side of the rotor, with the friction sides facing the rotor. When the brakes are applied, the caliper squeezes the brake pads so that they contact the rotating rotor, thus slowing down and eventually stopping the vehicle. Over time, these brake pads tend to wear out with use and need to be replaced at regular intervals, as recommended by the manufacturer, to ensure that they maintain a credible degree of stopping power. The disc wear rate varies with the type of material used and the number of miles driven.

A brief history of brake pads

Asbestos was the preferred material of brake pads manufacture during the 1950’s and 60’s when disk brakes began to gain popularity. Asbestos has excellent durability and heat resistance characteristics, which has made it the preferred material of choice. However, as its detrimental environmental and health implications came to light in the 70’s, it was phased out and replaced by safer, more durable materials that were made of organic and metallic compounds.

The organic brake pads are primarily made of glass, rubber and associated “soft” compounds that are fused together with heat resistant resins. These types of braking pads are lighter in weight and are quieter in operation. However, owing to their soft structure, these pads tend to wear out quite fast. Hence, they are suitable for smaller vehicles that do not require frequent hard stops.

Metallic pads, like the name suggests, are made of metals such as iron, copper, steel etc. along with a graphite lubricant. The materials used for the manufacture of this product give it a unique structure and thus makes it one of the most robust types of brake pads today. These types of pads are known to easily dissipate heat from the rotors during braking. This increases the overall life of the entire braking system and requires less frequent rotor replacements. The metallic brake pads are considered to be much better than their organic counterparts in terms of overall performance. Another popular type of brake pads in the markets today are the ceramic pads, which are made of stacked ceramic fibers, bonding materials, and filler materials with trace amounts of metal for added stability.

What are semi metallic brake pads?

Semimetallic brake pads are an amalgamation of both metallic and organic brake pads. They are made of strands of steel, which comprises of up to 35- 60% metal by weight. These metallic stands, which are made of steel, iron, copper, etc., are combined with friction modifiers and a graphite lubricant (and infused in an organic resin) that makes them highly durable. The metallic composition has a high thermal threshold and hence these brake pads have a wider operating temperature range, which results in low compressibility and provides firm braking.

Apart from the efficiency of operation, another factor that is responsible for the popularity of semi metallic brake pads is their cost factor. The compositional materials and manufacturing methods of semi metallic brake pads are not cost intensive, and hence are available at a cheaper price. Since they don’t wear as much as other types of brake pads, they don’t have to be replaced frequently. These pads are extremely versatile and can be used for small cars and large trucks/ SUVs as well. Despite all advantages, these brake pads do come with their own set of problems. The most persistent of them are the noise and the brake dust generated during braking. This material is also quite abrasive, and tends to wear brake rotors faster than organic brake pads.

Comparing with the closest rival- Ceramic brake pads

The tussle between the semi metallic brake pads and the ceramic type has always yielded in ambiguous results. Your choice in either one will always be a compromise- either in terms of longevity or performance. Although the ceramic pads offer cleaner, quieter stops, you will be sacrificing braking performance. While the semi metallic ones offer excellent stopping power, they do result in loud screeches and dust from the eroding pads.

Ceramics are harder than their semi metallic counterparts. This hardness does increase their life, but as they have a lower cold bite, the ceramic brake pads tend to be practically less effective in colder weathers. Ceramics are not very good heat sinks and cannot effectively absorb the heat from the rotors during braking, and contribute to the increase of temperature within the entire braking system. Ceramics also have a lower coefficient of friction and were never designed for high performance action. Semi metallic brake pads, however, offer an excellent stopping power despite the noise and dust. They operate better on a wide range of temperatures due to their higher thermal threshold. They offer a consistent stoppage throughout their wide band of operating range.

Pad selection

Selecting the right braking pad can be quite difficult. The right kinds of pads are not always the most expensive ones. You need to consider various factors such as the weight of the vehicle, acceleration, and the ambient temperature of the place you drive in as well. When in doubt, replace your existing brake pads with factory specified types. This will ensure optimal performance for your vehicle. If you do choose to upgrade your existing pads, then you need to consider the implications and take professional help in choosing and installing the right kinds of brake pads. In most cases, it is recommended that you use high quality, semi metallic brake pads which offer excellent stopping power and fade resistance.

Know when you should Change your Brake Pads

There are times when people somehow neglect the aspect of safety while driving. There can be various reasons for this. At times people unknowingly neglect safety and at times knowingly. Knowingly suggests not using seat belts and things like that and unknowingly means using wrong brake pads and other safety aspects.

When you think to bring your car to halt in a secure manner, then the most significant component is the brake pad. Basically, they are known as brake linings and are accountable for slowing the speed of the vehicle through its usage of hydraulic and mechanical force when brake pedal is hard-pressed. Brake pads are manufactured and developed by big firms all over the globe with important brands being recognized for manufacturing the utmost quality.

Brake pads convert kinetic energy of the vehicle to thermal energy. It plays a necessary role in car’s braking system. Therefore, selecting an appropriate pad for the vehicle will not only save money but it will save time as well. Now, let us read some brief description about these pads and how important they are.

Not considering which brand name you opt, you need to initially know the time when to change the brake pads. If you do not change it on time, then it might be risky for you when traveling. In earlier time, the most known pads were the organic brake pads and these were made from asbestos. Now, asbestos is being abandoned by majority of the manufacturers. On the other hand, when the pad breaks down, then you can see lot of dust, which may be harmful to your health. These pads are discs, which are pressed and aligned with the brake pillar via hydraulics so as to slow down the wheel.

When Brake Pads Need Changing

 

There are several reasons why brake pads require changing. It must be changed very soon for safety reason.

Awful Noises:

If you hear some kind of grinding, squealing, and whining sounds from the brake pads, then that definitely means it needs changing now. Not only are such sounds irritating, but they also are signs that your brake pads need to be changed. Moreover, the sounds can also be disturbing along with providing you signals that brake pads are given way.

Poor Gripping: If you experience that after pressing the brakes, the car does not slow down, then you need to understand that it is not safe to drive that vehicle. If the brake pads are not giving you good performance, as it should be, then you possibly get it changed as soon as possible.

If the above mentioned problems exist with the brake pad of your car, then get it checked and replace it immediately. This ensures the safety of the passengers traveling in the car as well as others who are driving on the road.

Search for Durable Brake Pads for your Car

Durable and light brake pads are considered to be the best amongst all kinds of pads. Made up of ceramic fibers, bonding agents, filler material, and minute amount of copper, these ceramic brake pads make the best possible choice for the sports car. Nevertheless, because of its high pricing, very few people opt for ceramic brake pads. However, for people who consider pricing as a base, then semi metallic brake pads too are a good option. Though they are noisy, performance is always good along with they being affordable. At the end all will be based on your need.

So choose what suits you best and suffices your requirement to perfection. Moreover, it should also suit your vehicle and driving needs. The brake pads are easily available at online stores. You can opt from the variety of pads available there such as metallic, ceramic, or anything else. Nevertheless, at the same time, you need to make sure that the website you are looking at for brake pads must be reliable and must offer good after-sales service. The reviews of the customers will tell you about the reliability of the store that is specializing in brake pads. Moreover, you will get these items at very reasonable pricing there as compared to other retail outlets. Research will be the key to find the right online source.