Brake Rotor Refinishing
Refer to
Brake Dust Warning
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Note
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The disc brake rotors do not require refinishing as part of routine brake system service. New disc brake rotors do not require refinishing. Do not refinish disc brake rotors in an attempt to correct the following conditions:
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Brake system noise - squeal, growl, groan
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Uneven and/or premature disc brake pad wear
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Superficial or cosmetic corrosion/rust of the disc brake rotor friction surface
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Scoring of the disc brake rotor friction surface less than the maximum allowable specification
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Before refinishing a brake rotor, the rotor MUST first be checked for adequate thickness to allow the rotor to be refinished and remain above the minimum allowable thickness after refinish specification. Refer to
Brake Rotor Thickness Measurement
. Disc brake rotors should only be refinished if they have adequate thickness to be refinished and if one or more of the following conditions exist:
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Thickness variation in excess of the maximum allowable specification
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Excessive corrosion/rust and/or pitting
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Cracks and/or heat spots
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Excessive blueing discoloration
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Scoring of the disc brake rotor surface in excess of the maximum allowable specification
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Disc brake rotors may need to be refinished as part of the process for correcting brake rotor assembled lateral runout (LRO) that exceeds the maximum allowable specification.
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Note
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Whenever the brake rotor has been separated from the hub/axle flange, clean any rust or contaminants from the hub/axle flange and the brake rotor mating surfaces. Failure to do this may result in excessive assembled LRO of the brake rotor, which could lead to brake pulsation.
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Thoroughly clean any rust or corrosion from the mating surface of the hub/axle flange.
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Thoroughly clean any rust or corrosion from the mating surface and mounting surface of the brake rotor.
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Inspect the mating surfaces of the hub/axle flange and the rotor to ensure that there are no foreign particles or debris remaining.
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Mount the brake rotor to the brake lathe according to the lathe manufacturer's instructions, ensuring that all mounting attachments and adapters are clean and free of debris.
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Ensure that any vibration dampening attachments are securely in place.
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With the brake lathe running, slowly bring in the cutting tools until they just contact the brake rotor friction surfaces.
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Observe the witness mark on the brake rotor. If the witness mark extends approximately three-quarters or more of the way around the brake rotor friction surface on each side, the brake rotor is properly mounted to the lathe.
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If the witness mark does not extend three-quarters or more of the way around the brake rotor, re-mount the rotor to the lathe.
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Following the brake lathe manufacturer's instructions, refinish the brake rotor.
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If at any time the brake rotor exceeds the minimum allowable thickness after refinish specification, the brake rotor must be replaced.
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After refinishing the brake rotor, use the following procedure in order to obtain the desired non-directional finish:
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Follow the brake lathe manufacturer's recommended speed setting for applying a non-directional finish
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Using moderate pressure, apply the non-directional finish:
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If the lathe is equipped with a non-directional finishing tool, apply the finish with 120 grit aluminum oxide sandpaper.
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If the lathe is not equipped with a non-directional finishing tool, apply the finish with a sanding block and 150 grit aluminum oxide sandpaper.
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After applying a non-directional finish, clean each friction surface of the brake rotor with denatured alcohol, or an equivalent approved brake cleaner
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Remove the brake rotor from the brake lathe.
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If the brake rotor assembled LRO measurement exceeds the specification, bring the LRO to within specifications.
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