GENERAL BRAKE MAINTENANCE

Air Systems - Make sure you have a balanced brake system

Chambers - Make sure push rod travel is even on all chambers. Cut the push rod to proper length

Slack Adjuster - Set thorn up properly - 90º rules for manual. Use templates for automatic slacks

S-Cams - No grease on S-Cam head. Seal installation; Free play  movement up and down; Free play movement in and out; Roller differences

Hardware Kits - Replace completely - not just springs

Shoes - Do complete replacement, not just one wheel. Minimum should be complete axle

Drums - Heavy drums for severe duty application

Lining Wear Patterns - First thing you do after removing drums is to look at the brake shoes and lining before you remove them off the wheel

Brake Adjustment - Jack up axles and snub up brakes and back off 1/4 to 1/2 turn on manuals and use templates on automatics

Brake Lining Burnishings - Heat up brakes until you can smell them and let them cool off. Do this procedure within 1/2 mile to 1 mile. Check wheel temperature with heat gun