Raybestos Drag Reduction Clips

[brentalan]

Saw this on the latest RockAuto newsletter.

Thoughts???

(61 second video)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Q4lPN13E_ig

 

[ChrisW]

Some applications come with a similar fashion by OE design. For example, my Mazda6 (same front brake as Ford Fusion) has these 'spreader-type' clips that essentially do the same thing as these clips would, and the pads actually have these small holes drilled into the backing plate for the clips. Makes it a pain to install the pads w/o it wanting to come apart! (But I've learned a trick for that, you flip the caliper down a bit to captivate the pad a bit with the littlest bit of the caliper ear, then tuck the clips in under the caliper and swing it down and tighten the slide pin bolts)

 

[beast3300]

A lot of cars already have these. I suppose it's a good idea.

 

[mechtech2]

Like mentioned, many cars have similar devices standard.
The flex of the piston seals is usually enough for pad retraction, but spreader devices can help. Do not be aggressive with pressure, though!

 

[George7941]

What I don't understand is, what is preventing these clips from expanding the pads too far apart, leaving you with no brakes until you pump the pedal?

 

[mechtech2]

George -
The weak stock types do not seem to be a problem with excessive retraction. Even when sitting for months.
But you are right about the possibility of this occurring. Like I said, aggressive spreaders can cause the problems you mention.

 

[George7941]

I am going to guess at an answer to my own question.

These springs are weak and will assist the caliper piston seals in retracting the pads but are too weak to do it by themselves.

Also, rust buildup on the caliper sliding surfaces make it difficult to retract the pads beyond its current working range.

 

[George7941]

Thanks, mechtech2, we posted at nearly the same time and I did not read your post before I posted.