D154 Rear Kit
(805) 388-1188
Search: Enter Part # or Description
 


Go
Pad Bedding - Tech Tips Wednesday, May 16, 2012

MINIMUM TEST PROCEDURE

WARNING: DO NOT DRIVE ON UNTESTED BRAKES. BRAKES MUST BE TESTED AFTER INSTALLATION OR MAINTENANCE

  • Make sure pedal is firm: Hold firm pressure on pedal for several minutes, it should remain in position without sinking. If pedal sinks toward floor, check system for fluid leaks. DO NOT drive vehicle if pedal does not stay firm or can be pushed to the floor with normal pressure.

  • At very low speed (2-5 mph) apply brakes hard several times while turning steering from full left to full right, repeat several times. Remove the wheels and check that components are not touching, rubbing, or leaking.

  • Carefully examine all brake components, brake lines, and fittings for leaks and interference.

  • Make sure there is no interference with wheels or suspension components.

  • Drive vehicle at low speed (15-20 mph) making moderate and hard stops. Brakes should feel normal and positive. Again check for leaks and interference.

  • Always test vehicle in a safe place where there is no danger to (or from) other people or vehicles.

  • Always wear seat belts and make use of all safety equipment.

Pad Bedding

The bedding process is the final "heat cure" for the pads. This final bedding cure differs from an oven heat cure in such that the oven heat cure does not include the pressure, torque, and elevated surface temperatures that are necessary to properly condition the pad for service. As it is with the rotors, new pads must be gradually brought up to temperature and then slowly cooled. If the pads are put into hard service right from the start, damage from fractures or accelerated deterioration due to extreme temperature variations between the surface and the body of the pad can occur. Overall poor performance with the potential for rotor damage are often the results.

Bedding Steps:

Once the brake system has been tested and determined safe to operate the vehicle, follow these steps for bedding of all pad materials and rotors. This procedure should be performed on a race track or other safe location where you can safely and legally obtains speeds up to 65 MPH while also being able to rapidly decelerate.

1. Proceed with a series of 8-10 hard stops from 55-65 MPH down to 25 MPH allowing 20-30 seconds of cool down time between each stop.

2. Drive at a moderate cruising speed, with the least amount of brake contact possible, until most of the heat has dissipated from the brakes. Avoid sitting stopped with the brake pedal depressed to hold the car in place during this time. Park the vehicle and allow the brakes to cool to ambient air temperature.