Squealing front brakes

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rutter123
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Squealing front brakes

Post by rutter123 »

After fitting new pads and discs approx 1000 miles back, gen bendix pads and unknown discs, new fitting kits, only squealing under light braking, have copper slipped the backs which stopped it for a 100 miles or so, but now squealing again.
Have, checked handbrake cables are not snagged everything appears to be in order, brakes work well but squealing persists.
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Way2go
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Re: Squealing front brakes

Post by Way2go »

Did you install the pads the right way round? They will fit the wrong way but the "pip" on only one of the pads needs to locate in the piston. They will work the wrong way too but there can be noises and faster wear as a result.
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Tinkley
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Re: Squealing front brakes

Post by Tinkley »

I had sqealing pads when I fitted Mintex ones to what I believe were the OE Bendix discs. However since fitting genuine Bendix discs and pads (Jan this year) no squealing at all, and progressive 'correct' braking as far as I am aware, ie can lock up with a lot of pressure but some reasonable feedback. My guess would be non Bendix discs - ps I have not copper slipped anything either. I'm always a bit wary of non matched stuff. On my Italian bikes I've always (bar once) used Ferodo pads with good results, the exception were SBS and they were not as good in the wet, but fair. The Mintex did stop OK but I think caused premature disc wear.
Usually you can visually see differences in grain and material with pads, but with cast iron the grain structure is much harder to see unless you have access to specialised equipment, dye may show a grain if you are lucky. Personally I give the manufacturer benefit of the doubt and usually they have developed a very good solution. It may be different if you completely change the system to say a Brembo set up with Ferodos which again should work or equivalent OEM type manufacturer. BTW the Pagid stuff is a bit 'hard' by all accounts, and some of the really cheap stuff (I've seen discs for £6) I would certainly steer clear of..... :wink:
As I value primary safety pretty highly, I don't skimp on tyres, brakes, steering etc it's the only thing between you and an accident. Apart from shitty VW brakes due to hte servo on the 'wrong' side and some Ford Transit brake set ups it is rare to get a vehicle with inadequate brakes, though a few Japanese m/cycles from the past would qualify.... :wink:
If possible I'd change or swap the discs to see if it eliminates the squeal.
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Re: Squealing front brakes

Post by Defender110 »

I'm in total agreement with Tinkley on this although you may be able to buy some anti-squeal shims that will cure your problem. Many manufacturers fit these to prevent squealing and personally I'm not a fan of the copper grease solution; I don't know a single manufacturer who uses copper grease in the production process, it's just a cowboy solution IMHO that attracts unwanted deposits of grit etc . Try a Google search for anti-squeal shims.
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rutter123
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Re: Squealing front brakes

Post by rutter123 »

Yes, pads are installed correctly, as said it most likely inferior quality discs as they came to me with no packaging just in bubble wrap with no indication of manufacturer and no markings on the discs. Have searched the usual channels for anti rattle pads with no joy but i expect i will be changing the discs as a matter of course. For the short while i will have to put up with the annoyance.
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Defender110
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Re: Squealing front brakes

Post by Defender110 »

Kevan
1997 Mercedes C230 W202
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1993 Land Rover Discovery 200tdi Series 1 3 door - in need of TLC
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Kaapelimies
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Re: Squealing front brakes

Post by Kaapelimies »

Never had a problem of squealing brakes. I've used all brands of pads and discs, and I don't think it's all about luck. Because mine is not usually very good.. When replacing pads (and/or discs) clean ALL surfaces from rust and oxidizing remains (a brush is not enough, I use a small flat hand file) and apply a thin coat of greaseless (ceramic) paste between all parts that move compared to each other (and also between the hub and new brake disc, and brake caliper and pad). For slide pins (if removed from their boots) use quality brake paste, I think it has silicone in it, the one I have used is blue in colour. Check all parts move freely before adding any anti-rattle springs (if used).
Once I had squealing from rear brakes shortly after overhauling, recleaning the linings between pad and cylinder body & regreasing did the job. Just never allow any grease on the friction surface!
BX 4x4 estate, several BX Van's and some more normal estates in Finland.
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