The disc brake assembly consists of a caliper assembly,
rotor, linings, anchor plate, and pads mounted to the steering knuckle. The
caliper mounts in a way that allows it to move laterally against the rotor.
The caliper is a one-piece casting with the inboard side containing the
piston bore. A square cut rubber seal fits in a groove in the piston bore
to provide a hydraulic seal and return mechanism for the piston.
Applying the brake pedal causes the hydraulic pressure that moves
the caliper piston. The piston then forces the inboard brake lining assembly
against the inboard braking surface of the rotor. Increasing the force
against the rotor causes the caliper to move inboard. The outer brake
lining assembly then contacts the outboard braking surface of the rotor.
The force of the two lining assemblies provides the desired clamping action
on the rotor.
Releasing the brake pedal relieves the pressure applied on the piston.
The square cut seal on the piston relaxes and the seal allows a running clearance
between the brake lining assemblies and the rotor.
Servicing Information
| • | Replace all components included in the repair kits. |
| • | Lubricate the parts as specified. |
| • | Do not use lubricated shop air on the brake parts. Shop air can
damage the rubber components. |
| • | If necessary, bleed all or part of the brake system after any
hydraulic component has been removed or disconnected. |
| • | Replace brake pads, shoes and linings in axle sets only. |
| • | The torques specified are for dry, unlubricated fasteners. |
| • | Perform service operations on a clean bench. Verify that the bench
is free from mineral oil and other contaminants. |
| • | Use extreme care when doing any work around antilock components
in order to prevent damage or misalignment. |
| • | Pump the brake pedal several times in order to make sure it is
firm prior to moving the vehicle. Do not move the vehicle until a firm pedal
has been obtained. Check the brake fluid level in the master cylinder
after pumping the brakes. |
Rotor
The front disc brakes use one of four different styles of rotors. The
smaller two wheel drive models (C1, C2, and C3) use standard 31.75 mm
rotors. The heavy duty two wheel drive model (C3500 HD) has four wheel
disc brakes with 36.45 mm rotors. The smaller four wheel drive
models (K1 and K2) use a composite rotor. The larger four wheel drive
models (K2 and K3) use 31.75 mm rotors on single wheel models and
38.10 mm rotors on dual wheel models. The 31.75 mm rotors
are three-piece assemblies consisting of a rotor, the bearings, and a
hub. Models with dual rear wheels (R05) use a four-piece rotor assembly
consisting of a rotor, the bearings, a hub, and an extension.
The rear disc brakes use a combination rotor and hub assembly. The rotor
is integral with the rear hub. During operation, the rotor turns between the
linings and the basically free-wheels until the linings begin to apply
a clamping action onto the rotor. the vented area between the rotor braking
surfaces allows for efficient heat dissipation
Caliper
The front disc brakes use three different types of calipers. The Delco
3400 calipers with 2.953 inch and 3.150 inch single bores are
used on the models with a 9600 or lower GVW rating. The Delco 3486 calipers
with an 3.386 inch single bore is used on models with 10,000, 11,000,
and 12,000 GVW ratings. The C3500 HD model uses a Bendix® single bore
caliper.
The rear disc brakes use a Bendix® caliper.
The Delco calipers mount to the support bracket using two bolts. The
Bendix® caliper mounts to the support bracket using a support key, a spring,
and a bolt assembly.
