BRAKE PAD BEDDING IN PROCEDURE
To ensure
maximum performance and customer satisfaction, new brake pads must be
bedded in upon installation. Correct
bedding guarantees that new brake pads and new rotors work flawlessly
together. In order to
function optimally, organic brake pads must develop friction coal on its
surface. This friction coal develops at a temperature of approximately
280°C (537°F). It is very
important that this temperature is reached continuously and slowly.
This gradual process generates temperatures that not only penetrate
the surface of the brake discs and pads, but also distribute evenly
through the whole disc and pad material.
This is essential when using new brake discs, since the disc often
shows signs of stress (due to the casting process and fast cooling) in the
materials. A steady and
careful warming and cooling process guarantees a good release of both
materials.
The
bedding in/break in procedure should be done as follows:
- Drive
at approx. 35 mph (60 kmh) for about 500 yards (solid front discs) to
800 yards (vented front discs) while slightly dragging the brakes
(i.e. light brake pedal pressure).
This process allows the brake temperature to slowly and evenly
build up to 300°C (572°F).
- Now,
if possible, drive about 2200 yards maintaining the same speed without
braking.
This will allow the pads and discs to cool down evenly.
After this cool-down, perform a normal brake application from
35 mph to 0.
No panic stops!
- Now,
the friction surface has evenly developed friction coal, the pads have
bonded with the disc surface, and tensions in the disc materials will
have disappeared.
- Only
trained master mechanics should perform this procedure before
delivering the vehicle to its owner.
Do not expect your customer to properly finish your brake job!
- This
bedding process is only suitable for the front axle - not the rear.
This is due to the brake force distribution of front and rear
axles.
In order to reach 300°C (527°F) on the rear pads you would
have to drive several miles with dragging brakes.
However, in that time the front brakes will be glowing red,
overheating and thus destroying the front brakes.
- Final
note – don’t forget to clean hubs and check the wheel bearings.
Also, the brake fluid should be replaced at least every 2 years.
UPDATED 2/3/03