How to Reline Your Brakes

Suggested Brake Relining Procedures

• Remove the drum and inspect it for general wear, cracks, heat-checks and other evidence of potential over-heating.
• Inspect the brake lining, ensuring there is even wear on both shoes, across the axel, all breaks on a tandem. Uneven wear indicates an issue.
• Inspect the rollers, pins and bushings for uneven wear. Note: These components will be discarded along with the springs, but identifying uneven wear will pinpoint problem areas in the foundation brake.
• Inspect the spider, brackets and air chamber for damage and security.
• Inspect the cam bushings, cam shaft and slack adjuster for wear. Note: It is recommended that the cam bushings be replaced at each reline, especially if there is indication of uneven wear.
• Replace the lining with material that is suited to the application by GAWR, A/L factor and tire size.
• Inspect the shoe for stretch, warping, anchor pin fit and roller fit.
• Install all new hardware, bushings and other components to ensure they will operate satisfactorily through the next reline.
• Adjust the brakes in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendation.
• Road test the vehicle to ensure proper brake operation. Note: It is recommended that brakes be applied at high input pressure without locking the wheels. A minimum of 20 stops should be made.
• Let the brakes cool and check adjustments.