Brake Shoes

Housed within a drum brake and backing plate the brake shoes will be operated hydraulically through the activation of the brake pedal. Pushing brake fluid to the relevant wheel cylinder will engage pistons to force the brake shoes lining against the brake drum creating both friction and heat to slow the vehicle down.

As this friction material creates heat this can lead to excessive brake drum heating which in turn dulls the response and effectiveness of the drum brakes as the pad has to travel further to meet the expanding brake drum.

Whilst both braking systems are found on modern vehicles disc brakes now feature more frequently than drum brakes. The nature of disc brakes and disc brake pads enable easier replacement, longer intervals between overheating due to their open design, and less torque required to contact pad to the disc brake rotors.

Drum brakes are still used especially in the rear axle as they however enable easier engagement of a parking brake but also provide sufficient brake function as most braking is done via the disc brake system located on the front wheels.

As with any friction material brake shoes wear as a function of their use. In the case of rear drum brakes it is necessary to elevate the vehicle and remove the wheel and brake drum to check on its condition. As these do less of the braking than front disc brake systems they will go longer between maintenance but still require periodic inspection.

Any leaking of brake fluid as well as significant wear of the brake shoe friction material will require immediate attention to service and repair these issues.

Repco stock a wide variety of brake shoes to suit a large range of vehicles and applications. Using our handy Rego search function online allows you to find the right brake shoes at the right price.