subject: Brake Rotors Replacement Turn Down The Heat! [print this page] Every time you hit the brakes, all that energy you built up by stamping down on the throttle is converted into friction and heat andsnapyou slow down and come to a stop. This process is repeated hundreds of times without much thought, whether its on a run to the supermarket or a road trip. Over time the friction and heat created by the brake pads clamping down on the rotors actually wears down the metal surface of the rotor, and problems arise, possibly leading to the brake rotors replacement.
Too Thin For Comfort
When a rotor gets too thin it loses its ability to channel heat away from the braking process and it overheats. The combination of too thin and too hot is a bad oner. Overheating brakes can cause a myriad of problems with your braking system. Pads get too hot and produce gases that cause your brakes to fade. Rotors will warp and discolor as they overheat. Worst of all, brake fluid can boil and total loss of braking can occur.
Things Get Bent Out Of Shape
A perfect rotor is smooth and flat like a dinner plate. When it becomes warped it looks more like a wavy potato chip. The measure of this flatness is called run-out, and a difference as small as .001 of an inch off center can be felt in the brake pedal. If consistently overheated, rotors can become scored with deep scars.
Brake Rotors Replacement
If youre feeling a vibrating sensation when stepping on the brakes, schedule a brake inspection, which likely will result in brake rotors replacement. The first thing the mechanic will measure is the rotors minimum thickness. The next thing they will inspect is the run-out. If the rotor is within specifications it may be resurfaced and then reinstalled. If any of the measurements are beyond specifications, it must be replaced.
Dont be tempted to skimp or to cut corners on brakes. It could be the worst and last decision you will ever make. When in doubt, the safest strategy is replacement. A benefit of brake rotors replacement is saving time. Removing them and getting them checked and turned can use up hours of your time. Even though brake rotors replacement is not considered a major mechanical repair, its money well spent for safety and peace of mind.
Problems with brakes? Contact a quality our ASE Certified Technicians at Prices Precision today by calling (406) 248-2838, or go on-line to www.pricesprecisionauto.com for advice on brake rotors replacement. Our Tech-Net professional auto repair shop in Billings, MT, also serves vehicle owners in the areas of Shepherd and Laurel, MT.
