Do not refinish brake rotors when performing routine brake maintenance such as replacing worn disc brake pads. Refinish a rotor only under the following circumstances:
• | There is a complaint of brake pulsation. |
• | There are heat spots or excessive scoring. |
All brake rotors have a minimum thickness dimension cast into them.
This dimension is the minimum wear dimension and not a refinish dimension.
Do not use a brake rotor that will not meet the specifications.
If the rotor thickness will be less than the specifications after refinishing, replace the rotor.
A rotor which has been refinished too thin will not have proper heat transfer capabilities.
Accurate control of the rotor tolerances is necessary for proper performance of the disc brakes.
Use only precision equipment in order to machine the rotor.
Service the machining equipment on a regular basis. Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance procedure.
When refinishing rotors, ensure that the following components are in good condition:
• | The attaching adapters |
• | The tool holders |
• | The vibration dampeners |
• | The tool bits |
Always use sharp cutting tools or bits. Use only replacement cutting bits recommended by the equipment manufacturer.
Dull or worn tools leave a poor surface finish that will affect initial braking performance.
Always use vibration dampening attachments when refinishing braking surfaces.
The attachments eliminate tool chatter and will result in a better surface finish.
Ensure that the adapters are clean, and free of nicks.
Important: Ensure that the rotor surface is made nondirectional. Dress the rotor surfaces using a sanding disc power tool such as Ammco 8350 Safe Swirl Disc Rotor Grinder, or equivalent, using 120 grit aluminum oxide sandpaper.