The brakes on your truck are among the most important components. It is as important a system as the engine that moves your truck forward. Brakes, especially, truck brake systems tend to break down more often than those in smaller vehicles. Trucks are not only much heavier, but they also carry heavy loads. This increases the stress and strain on the system, thus putting it under more wear and tear. There is a general rule to keeping your truck’s braking system in better condition – the more often the small and minor components are repaired or replaced, the lesser the chances will be of running into braking system problems. Replacing the brake pads, fixing calliper problems, and repairing the rotor in a timely manner can prevent many issues.
What are some of the common truck brake system repairs? What does a complete brake job involve? Find out in this guide.
Common Brake Repair Jobs
Some of the common brake repair jobs for trucks include brake pad replacement, brake rotor repair or replacement, and calliper replacements. Taking care of these jobs regularly can prevent major brake system breakdowns or expensive repairs.
Brake Pads Replacement
When the inexpensive brake pads are replaced in time, you are reducing the amount of damage done to other parts of the system. Follow these tips:
- Get the brake pads checked at every other oil change interval
- If you notice any noise, get the brake pads checked
Noises from the braking system commonly mean that the brake pads are worn and are grinding against the brake rotors.
Damaged Brake Rotors Replacement
Brake rotors may not wear out as quickly as the brake pads, but they should be checked occasionally. Keep the following points in mind when about brake rotor repairs:
- Rotors should be replaced if they are worn, cracked or rusty
- Timely rotor replacement reduces the wear on the brake pads
- Any vibrations when applying the brakes could be a sign of warped brake rotors
Calliper Problems
When brakes are applied callipers apply pressure on the brake pads to push against the rotor. While callipers can last long, they tend to get damaged when the brake pads are not replaced in time. They never come in contact with the rotors. So, regular brake pad replacement should prevent callipers from wearing out.
A Complete Brake Job
Your truck’s braking system also requires a complete job from time to time. As the name suggests, this will involve inspection of all aspects of the system and fixing any issues that get detected. A typical job will cover the following components and steps:
- Resurfacing drums and rotors
- Replacing drums and rotors if they are worn, have hard spots, or are cracked
- New front and rear linings
- Replacing calliper bushings, sleeves, pins, and drum hardware
- Replacing or rebuilding callipers and wheel cylinders
- If leaks or other issues are detected brake hoses or master cylinder may be replaced
- Wheel bearings are inspected
- Brake fluid is tested. If required the brake fluid is flushed and all the lines are bled.
- Lubrication of key areas including shoe pads and calliper slides using high-temperature brake lubricants
- Inspection of the ABS system for fault codes. Replacement of any faulty components such as hydraulic motor, wheel speed sensors, pump, accumulator, and relay.
- Inspection and adjustment of the parking brake
A complete brake system repair job can also include inspection of the pedal feel and travel. Only when the inspection is complete, the truck repair mechanics will recommend a replacement or repair. The inspection process will also include a test drive to assess the brake performance of your truck.
Whether you have one or more trucks, regular brake system inspection, maintenance, and repairs are important to your safety and bottom-line. It is recommended to seek the services of a specialized truck repair and maintenance facility with the right resources and experience required to take care of your truck.
Comments are closed.