Parts for your 2020 Ford Ranger-Brake shoes

Brake Shoes and Their Role in the 2020 Ford Ranger

The 2020 Ford Ranger is a popular mid-sized ute known for its robust performance and modern design. When it comes to its braking system, it's important to know whether brake shoes play a part or if another braking mechanism is used. After referencing several technical resources and repair manuals related to the 2020 Ford Ranger, it's clear that brake shoes are not relevant or used on this vehicle. Instead, the 2020 Ford Ranger utilises disc brakes at both the front and rear wheels.

So, why does the 2020 Ford Ranger not use brake shoes? Brake shoes are typically found in drum brake systems, which were common in older or more budget-friendly vehicles, often on the rear axles. Drum brakes operate by pushing the brake shoes outward against a rotating drum attached to the wheel, which creates friction to slow the vehicle. On the other hand, disc brakes, which use a pair of brake pads squeezing a rotor, offer better performance, especially in terms of heat dissipation and stopping power.

Modern vehicles like the 2020 Ford Ranger usually favour disc brakes all around for several reasons:

• Improved braking performance and shorter stopping distances
• Better resistance to brake fade during heavy or extended braking
• Easier and faster servicing compared to drum brakes
• More consistent response in wet and off-road conditions
• Enhanced compatibility with advanced safety features like ABS and electronic stability control

Because of these advantages, brake shoes and drum brakes are becoming less common on newer models, especially on mid-range and higher vehicles like the Ford Ranger. Disc brakes on the rear axle provide the Ranger with the reliable and consistent stopping power that matches its tough, versatile nature.

Now, while the 2020 Ford Ranger does not have brake shoes, understanding what brake shoes actually are can still be helpful for anyone maintaining older vehicles or different models. Essentially, brake shoes are curved pieces of metal lined with a friction material that press outward against the inside of a brake drum to slow or stop the wheel's rotation. They wear down over time due to friction, requiring regular inspection, replacement, and maintenance to ensure safe braking performance.

For vehicles fitted with brake shoes, maintenance is crucial. Brake shoes should be inspected regularly to check for wear, cracks, or contamination by oil and grease. Replacing brake shoes at the right time prevents damage to other braking components and ensures the vehicle can stop safely. Maintenance work on brake shoes often includes:

• Removing the brake drum for inspection
• Measuring the thickness of the friction material
• Cleaning and lubricating the backing plate contact points
• Replacing springs and hardware if worn or weak
• Installing new brake shoes if the existing ones are below the recommended thickness or damaged

On the other hand, the 2020 Ford Ranger's disc brakes require a different maintenance routine, focused mainly on brake pads, rotors, and fluid. Considering the high-performance requirements of the Ranger, it's important to ensure that these disc brake components are inspected during regular servicing. Worn brake pads should be replaced promptly to avoid rotor damage, and the brake fluid needs to be changed periodically to maintain hydraulic efficiency.

While brake shoes and drum brakes might sound like a thing of the past for the 2020 Ford Ranger, it's worth appreciating their design and function since they still serve as a useful comparison to the disc brake systems in modern vehicles. In essence, the Ranger is built to handle more demanding performance needs, and that's why disc brakes, which deliver superior braking capability, are the go-to choice for this tough ute.

If you own a 2020 Ford Ranger or are thinking about servicing one, focusing on disc brake pads and rotors will be your priority rather than brake shoes. It's always recommended to get regular brake inspections by a qualified mechanic who can detect any signs of wear or issues in your braking system early, ensuring smooth, safe driving whether you're cruising around town or off-roading in the great outdoors.