Re: [T3] Brake Problems

["Dave Hall" <dave@hallvw.clara.co.uk>]

The piston seals in the calipers distort as pressure comes on the
pistons, and they are meant to settle back again, pulling the piston
and pad back a little when the pressure relaxes to prevent drag on
the rotor (disc).  Old seals are not resilient enough to do this,
though they usually still seal OK.

Dave.
-----Original Message-----
From: Jim Adney <jadney@vwtype3.org>
To: type3@vwtype3.org <type3@vwtype3.org>
Date: 13 August 1998 01:08
Subject: Re: [T3] Brake Problems


On 11 Aug 98, at 7:07, Toby B wrote:

snipped

> On older disk setups, the wheel usually spins freely.  On more
modern
> discs, tho, the caliper maintains a bit (similar to how I set the
drums)
> of scuff.  I always figured it was to keep pedal travel to an
absolute
> minimum.

I don't find that any calipers in good repair will ever drag,
however
I seldom encounter calipers as old as ours that are still in that
good a shape.  One thing I do to check a brake system is to drive a
car for awhile, using the brakes as little as possible, then stop
gently and go around to all 4 wheels to feel the temp of the rotors
and drums.  Calipers and wheel cylinders that are becoming sticky
will produce drag that will burn your fingers.  A rebuilt brake will
not.  Keep in mind that some warmth is natural since you did just
use
the brakes to stop the car.

PS- I'm sure you'd agree that changing your brake fluid every couple
of years is cheap life insurance!

Well, I have used Silicone Brake Fluid for over 18 years now and it
never requires changing.  For those who are still using DoT 3/4,
changing is essential.

Jim
-
*******************************
Jim Adney, jadney@vwtype3.org
Madison, Wisconsin, USA
*******************************

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