Diesel Technic puts spotlight on brake calipers
CV components supplier Diesel Technic has provided advice for fleets on the maintenance of brake calipers.
“A brake caliper is made up of several parts, all crucial in the optimal operation of the brake system for all commercial vehicles and trailers,” said Mark Todd, general manager at Diesel Technic UK.
“Integral to the braking process, the main task of the brake caliper is to convert the pneumatic pressure in the braking system into a mechanical force – in order to reduce the vehicle’s speed.
“In the case of a pneumatically actuated disc brake, the piston rod of the brake cylinder is set in motion. Actuation of the piston rod on the brake caliper causes the inner brake pad to be pressed against the brake disc with high clamping force. With the reaction force, the outer pad is also pressed against the disc by moving the brake caliper, causing the vehicle to brake.”
When carrying out maintenance work on the wheel brake, says Mark, technicians should check that the brake calipers can be moved on the guide pins.
“Diesel Technic’s Parts Specialists recommend you move the brake caliper on the rim side several times up to the stop on the brake disc with the linings removed,” he continued.
“In this regard, the protective sleeves of the guide pins must not be squeezed, and the movement must be smooth.
“If the wheel brake does not work or is difficult to operate, the issue must be reported and a repair carried out using the appropriate repair kit. It is important that the brake caliper manufacturer’s service instructions are followed.”
Mark continued: “Scrupulous cleanliness is vital, because if contaminants get into the brake system or the brake fluid, the sleeves or internal sleeve could become damaged and the brake caliper will fail relatively quickly.
“As well as a full range of standard brake calipers, Diesel Technic’s brake caliper repair kits include guide rails, screws, sleeves, dust covers and lubricant to ensure mobility of all the components, for convenience and total peace of mind.”
More hints and tips are available in a recent workshop video from Diesel Technic’s Parts Specialists (on the Diesel Technic Group YouTube channel), where they examine the brake system of a transporter and discuss some of the common issues to look out for.
DT Spare Parts brand offers a complete range with more than 40,000 different spare parts for trucks, trailers and buses, including all standard brake calipers and repair kits.
