Parts for your 2017 Ford Everest-Brake shoes

Brake Shoes and the 2017 Ford Everest: What You Need to Know

When it comes to the 2017 Ford Everest, one might wonder if brake shoes play a role in its braking system. After checking through technical specifications and workshop information for this particular model, it's clear that brake shoes are not part of the 2017 Ford Everest's brake setup.

So, why aren't brake shoes used on the 2017 Ford Everest? The main reason goes back to how modern vehicles, especially SUVs like the Everest, are designed with disc brakes on all four wheels. This shift is due to the advantages disc brakes offer over brake shoes, which are typically found in drum brake systems.

Brake shoes are components designed exclusively for drum brakes. Inside the brake drum, the shoes carry the friction material that presses outwards against the drum to slow the vehicle down. While this system used to be common on many older vehicles and still finds use in some rear-wheel applications for certain cars and trucks, the 2017 Ford Everest opts for four-wheel disc brakes instead. Disc brakes use brake pads pressed against a rotor to create friction, which offers better performance, heat dissipation, and stopping power.

Because the Everest uses disc brakes on both the front and rear axles, brake shoes do not fit into this configuration. The rear axle employs disc brake calipers and rotors, making brake shoes irrelevant here. This modern braking setup is part of why vehicles like the Everest are so safe and reliable when it comes to stopping ability under Australian driving conditions.

Now, understanding brake shoes and their role in drum brake systems can still be helpful. Brake shoes are curved metal pieces with friction material bonded to their outer edge. When the driver presses the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure forces the shoes outwards against the inner surface of the drum, creating the friction required to slow down or stop the car. While not used in the Ford Everest, brake shoes require regular inspection and maintenance on any vehicle fitted with drum brakes.

If brake shoes were fitted to the Everest or any similar SUV, servicing them would involve several key points owners would need to keep in mind. Regular checks for wear are essential because worn brake shoes mean reduced braking efficiency and an increased risk of brake failure. Most manufacturers recommend checking brake shoes at least every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometres, although this depends on driving style and conditions.

Replacing worn brake shoes isn't overly complicated but is crucial for safe braking. Signs that they need replacement include a spongy brake pedal, unusual noises like squealing or grinding, or decreased stopping power. Maintenance routines would also cover cleaning the drum to remove dust and particles and ensuring any associated springs or hardware aren't damaged or corroded.

While it's worth noting again that the 2017 Ford Everest does not use brake shoes, understanding their purpose sheds light on why disc brakes are preferred on modern vehicles like this model. The Everest benefits from consistent, reliable braking that performs well under tough conditions, such as towing or off-road driving, where drum brakes and brake shoes might struggle due to heat and debris.

For Everest owners, regular brake maintenance focuses on inspecting brake pads, calipers, rotors, and brake fluid rather than brake shoes. Keeping an eye on the pads and discs ensures the braking system remains at its peak performance, especially considering the Everest's role as a family SUV and off-road capable machine.

In essence, brake shoes are a thing of the past for the 2017 Ford Everest, but they remain an interesting part of automotive braking history. For those interested in vehicle maintenance or exploring older vehicles with drum brakes, it's good to know how brake shoes work and how they fit into the broader picture of stopping your vehicle safely.