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Brake System Repair - Best Practice

1. Communicate with customers (service writer) for clear understanding of the repair requirements and customer expectations.

 

2. Four wheel inspection:

a. Important note wear and adjustments are working for both the front and rear.

b. Visually inspect all brake hoses, lines and hardware

3. Check for visual and unusual wear patterns which typically point to caliper, rotor, drum or hardware problems.

a. Friction is blamed for other system problems; friction is the symptom not the cause. 

 

4. Inspect the brake fluid levels and, just as important, check the condition of the fluid. 

 

5. Prior to compressing the caliper piston or the shoe cylinder inside the shoe assembly, using the correct tools, pinch the hose and open the bleeder screw(s).

 

6. Lubricate caliper slides and sleeves with the correct lube.

a. This step is critical to a a proper operating brake system. 

 

7. Replace all hardware. This step should NOT be overlooked or skipped. 

 

8. Turn rotors and drums - fast rotation with slow feed for the best finish, then apply a non-directional finish - OR - replace the rotors with new. 

 

9. Wash the rotors and drums with soap and water mix (a less expensive and the most effective method). Aerosol brake cleaners are not an efficient or effective method. Dry completely.

a. AmeriPLATINUM rotors have a patented finish that allows them to be installed directly out of their containers - time and money savers. 

 

10. Always use the correct brake fluid when bleeding the brake system. 

 

11. Re-install the wheels with a torque wrench or torque sticks using "star" pattern. Always follow the O.E. torque specifications.

a. Using a general shop air gun is not a best practice with the vehicles of today. 

 

12. Technician should always take the vehicle for a road test to check all applicable repairs. 

 

13. If possible, have the customer ride to assure their complete satisfaction and to earn a repeat customer. 

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