The Brake Calliper Carrier plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and efficient braking. It securely mounts the calliper to the vehicle’s suspension, allowing the brake pads to apply pressure to the rotor and slow the vehicle down. Recently, during a brake calliper overhaul that included cleaning, rebuilding, and painting, unusual wear was observed on one of the rear brake calliper carriers. This article explores the potential causes of this issue and proposes solutions for troubleshooting and repair.
Diagnosing Brake Calliper Carrier Contact
The initial observation was that the brake disc on the rear left side did not rotate smoothly, grinding against the brake calliper carrier. This grinding likely explains the unusual wear patterns found on the carrier. The wear occurs on the outward-facing side of the brake disc where it comes into contact with the carrier. While a quick fix might involve swapping the carriers, this merely avoids addressing the underlying cause of the problem: Why is the rotor making contact with the carrier in the first place?
Ruling Out Common Causes of Brake Disc Issues
One common misconception is warped rotors. However, as outlined in StopTech’s technical article (http://www.stoptech.com/tech_info/wp…rakedisk.shtml), this term is often misused. The issue is rarely warping but rather uneven deposits on the rotor surface. While brake pad deposits can contribute to braking issues, it’s unlikely they would build up sufficiently to cause contact with the calliper carrier.
Another possibility is the presence of cracks on the underside of the rotor. These cracks could create a cone effect, potentially leading to vibrations during braking or even contact with the carrier. This possibility requires further investigation. (See Figure 2 on the StopTech article for a visual representation of this phenomenon).
Investigating and Addressing Potential Issues
The next step involves a thorough cleaning of the hub, the back of the rotor, and the carrier mounting area using a wire brush. This will eliminate the possibility of debris causing interference. Further inspection will focus on identifying any potential damage or misalignment that could contribute to the rotor contacting the brake calliper carrier. This includes checking for:
- Loose or damaged wheel bearings: Worn bearings can cause excessive play in the hub, allowing the rotor to move and contact the carrier.
- Bent or damaged suspension components: A bent control arm or knuckle can alter the alignment of the wheel assembly, leading to interference.
- Incorrectly installed calliper or carrier: Double-check the installation process to ensure all components are correctly positioned and secured.
Conclusion: Ensuring Proper Brake Function
Addressing brake calliper carrier wear is crucial for maintaining optimal braking performance and ensuring vehicle safety. By systematically investigating potential causes, including debris, rotor damage, and suspension issues, the root cause of the problem can be identified and rectified. Thorough cleaning, inspection, and potentially replacing worn or damaged components will restore the braking system to its proper working order. Regular maintenance and inspection of brake components are essential for preventing future occurrences of this issue.
