This came up in another thread, (about 1/2-way down on first page):
http://theoildrop.server101.com/cgi/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=24;t=002402;p=1
The question has to do with the lining life of front versus rear brakes in these two system types.
"Do brake front/rear re-lines correspond more closely in four wheel disc systems as compared to disc/drum systems over a given set of miles?"
We all know that rear drums are prone not only to being out of adjustment (rear adjusters are rarely that effective, and proper lubrication is often not present compounding the problem), but that they may or may not be effectively proportioned as to pressure vis-a-vis weight actually carried versus factory settings. Also, dirt and grease can accumulate in some instances.
I recently came across a TSB concerning DODGE where the factory stated that front relines IN EXCESS of 2x as many on the front over the rear was excessive.
I am wondering -- beyond the usual explanation of "the front brakes carry the weight", etc -- if those with properly-maintained 4-wheel disc brakes are seeing rear pad replacement at only 1 to 1.5x as often. (Preferably, less).
(And, by properly maintained, I do mean calipers operating to design at each wheel [inner/outer apply force], and braking pressures equal side-to-side, not only properly front-to-rear).
I've always been able to run out to 70,000 miles or more on front disc relines (won't ever catch my old man with his 90,000 mile mark it looks like); and, over the past five years or so I've been more diligent in adjusting rear drums about every 5-7,000 miles or less (same as tire rotation & recording remaining tread depth.) I find that by the second front reline, or 135-145,000 miles that the rear drums need relining as well.
We've just gotten our first 4-whl disc car (the Lexyota noted in signature), and I've been able to teach my wife in techniques of longer brake and tire life. Our vehicles see no track time, but towing and city traffic are a constant over the past thirty years.
Your comments and experiences welcomed.
http://theoildrop.server101.com/cgi/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=24;t=002402;p=1
The question has to do with the lining life of front versus rear brakes in these two system types.
"Do brake front/rear re-lines correspond more closely in four wheel disc systems as compared to disc/drum systems over a given set of miles?"
We all know that rear drums are prone not only to being out of adjustment (rear adjusters are rarely that effective, and proper lubrication is often not present compounding the problem), but that they may or may not be effectively proportioned as to pressure vis-a-vis weight actually carried versus factory settings. Also, dirt and grease can accumulate in some instances.
I recently came across a TSB concerning DODGE where the factory stated that front relines IN EXCESS of 2x as many on the front over the rear was excessive.
I am wondering -- beyond the usual explanation of "the front brakes carry the weight", etc -- if those with properly-maintained 4-wheel disc brakes are seeing rear pad replacement at only 1 to 1.5x as often. (Preferably, less).
(And, by properly maintained, I do mean calipers operating to design at each wheel [inner/outer apply force], and braking pressures equal side-to-side, not only properly front-to-rear).
I've always been able to run out to 70,000 miles or more on front disc relines (won't ever catch my old man with his 90,000 mile mark it looks like); and, over the past five years or so I've been more diligent in adjusting rear drums about every 5-7,000 miles or less (same as tire rotation & recording remaining tread depth.) I find that by the second front reline, or 135-145,000 miles that the rear drums need relining as well.
We've just gotten our first 4-whl disc car (the Lexyota noted in signature), and I've been able to teach my wife in techniques of longer brake and tire life. Our vehicles see no track time, but towing and city traffic are a constant over the past thirty years.
Your comments and experiences welcomed.
