Cracking the Code, Understand Friction Material Edge Codes
Just about every brake pad or shoe you install has a cryptic code printed on the side of the friction material. As a technician, being able to read this code is just as important as the Dewy Decimal system is to a librarian. The “Edge Code” can tell you information about the product you are
Friction Material Selection
Because today’s lighter and more friction-efficient disc brakes have become very sensitive to differences in friction materials, the issue of selecting a quality brake pad is becoming increasingly relevant to the quality-conscious installer. To illustrate, aftermarket manufacturers of high-performance disc brakes offer literally dozens of racing pads that are qualitatively equal, but vary widely in
Always Inspect Hardware During Brake Repairs
Though it isn’t required, many brake experts recommend replacing the drum hardware when the brakes are relined to restore the brakes to like-new condition. But often the hardware isn’t replaced because it doesn’t seem necessary. Unless the hardware is badly corroded or shows obvious signs of stress, like severe heat discoloration or other visible damage,
Driveshaft Service
Driveshafts on most rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles are very durable. Most late-model driveshafts are not serviceable and do not have any lubrication points. But, this does not mean that they can’t wear, or even fail. Driveshaft problems can be spotted from the moment you put the vehicle in gear to pull it
Publisher’s Perspectives
I was reading the newspaper and came across an excerpt from a new book by Michael Crichton called “State of Fear.” Crichton also wrote “Jurassic Park” and “The Andromeda Strain,” and is the creator of the TV series “ER.” His new book reflects on fears that are created but never turn out to be as
‘Court’-ing Disaster
I just returned to the shop after what felt like the longest three hours of my life. I spent the afternoon in Small Claims Court, and while fascinating — the same kind of fascination that won’t allow you to look away when trains collide, planes fall out of the sky or fast-moving brush fires head