Parts for your 2017 Ford Transit-Brake shoes

Brake Shoes on the 2017 Ford Transit: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Ford Transit is a versatile and popular commercial van widely used across Australia for tasks ranging from deliveries to mobile workshops. When it comes to the braking system on this vehicle, it's important to understand whether brake shoes play a role or if another type of braking component is used instead.

After referring to technical sources and manufacturer specifications, it's clear that brake shoes are not a relevant or commonly used component on the 2017 Ford Transit's front brakes. Instead, this model primarily utilises disc brakes at the front, where brake pads press against a rotating disc to slow the vehicle down. The rear brakes on the 2017 Ford Transit can vary slightly depending on the specific model and build, but generally, higher-spec or newer variants often come with disc brakes all around. Some older or base variants might feature drum brakes at the rear, and if that's the case, those drum brakes would use brake shoes inside the drum to create friction and stop the vehicle.

So, whether the 2017 Ford Transit actually uses brake shoes or not depends on the specific rear braking system fitted. If the van has rear drum brakes, then brake shoes are definitely part of the setup. If the vehicle has rear disc brakes, then brake shoes are not relevant because brake pads replace their role.

Here's why brake shoes might be used on some 2017 Ford Transit models with drum brakes:

• Brake shoes are curved friction materials that press outwards against the inside of a steel drum connected to the wheel. This contact creates the friction needed to slow or stop the vehicle.
• Drum brakes typically offer good stopping power and are often found on rear axles of commercial vans and trucks because they can be more cost-effective to manufacture and maintain.
• The brake shoes in the drum brake system are self-energising, meaning the rotation of the drum helps to push the shoe further into the drum, requiring less force at the pedal compared to some disc brake setups.

For those 2017 Ford Transit owners with rear drum brakes and brake shoes fitted, regular maintenance and timely replacement are important to ensure safe and effective braking performance. Any commercial vehicle owner knows brakes are a critical safety feature, so understanding how brake shoes work and when to service them can help avoid unnecessary breakdowns or accidents.

The purpose of brake shoes is to provide reliable friction against the brake drum when the driver presses the brake pedal. Each shoe has a lining made from high-friction material bonded to a sturdy metal backing plate. Over time, the lining wears away due to constant contact with the spinning drum. As the lining gets thinner, braking performance drops and the chance of metal-to-metal contact can cause damage to both the drum and the shoes themselves. That is why regular checks during servicing are essential.

When a mechanic inspects brake shoes on a 2017 Ford Transit, they usually measure the thickness of the friction lining. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the brake shoes once the lining wears to about 2 millimetres or less. It is also important to watch for uneven wear or contamination with oil or grease, which could mean other issues needing attention. The overall condition of the brake drum should be checked too, ensuring there are no deep grooves or scoring that would affect the performance of new shoes.

Replacing brake shoes should always be done in pairs on the same axle to maintain even braking. It's a good idea to have the entire braking system inspected at each service, including checking brake fluid levels, inspecting drums and discs, and confirming the functionality of all brake components. For those using the Transit heavily or towing regularly, more frequent inspections might be necessary due to increased wear.

One tip to prolong brake shoe life is to avoid harsh or sudden braking whenever possible. Smooth driving and gradual slowing can reduce wear on the brake liners. Also, regular cleaning of brake components during servicing helps remove dust and debris that could accelerate wear.

In Aussie conditions where the Ford Transit might be loaded up with gear and driving long distances, having reliable braking components like brake shoes in good condition is crucial for safety on the road. Whether your Transit's rear brakes use drum brakes with brake shoes or disc brakes with pads, staying on top of brake servicing supports safe and effective stopping every time you hit the pedal.

So, for those owners with the rear drum brake setup, brake shoes are a key part of the braking system that require attention during regular servicing. For those with rear disc brakes, the focus is naturally on brake pads instead. Knowing your vehicle's specific configuration helps ensure you manage your brake maintenance properly and keep your trusty 2017 Ford Transit stopping safely on the busy Aussie roads.