Brake Tools & Accessories

FILTER
LIST
GRID

Brake Tools and Accessories

Brake equipment is used to repair or maintain the brakes of an automobile. The failure of the braking system can cause safety issues if not addressed, so you should regularly check your braking system for any problems. There are tools for the different components of a brake system.

Brake Caliper Tools

Here are some essential tools that can help you maintain or repair your brake calipers:

Brake disc caliper gauge – This tool is used to determine the extent of wear and tear in a brake disk. The disc caliper gauge may or may not come with a certificate.

Brake caliper wrench – This is used to tighten or loosen the rear axle brake caliper. It is also used to retain the bolts.

Brake caliper guide file – This is used to clean the surfaces of calipers and holders.

Wire brush – This tool is used to clean the lining surfaces of brake calipers and holders.

Wheel hubs cleaning sets – These are used to clean heavily soiled or rusting wheel hubs safely and quickly.

Honing brush – This brush is used for cleaning the holes in caliper housing. They generally produce excellent surface finishes on the disk rotors and wheels.

Mounting sleeve set – This is used in the installation of brake discs and drums.

Piston turning tool – This is used to adjust the pistons in the brake calipers.

Brake pad withdrawal tool – This tool is used to withdraw firmly-fitted disc brake pads that have holes.

Tools for Drum Brakes

Brake spring pliers – This is used in the mounting or removal of brake shoes. It is also used for installing springs on drum brakes.

Spring mounting tool – This tool is used in the removal and installation of brake shoe retaining springs.

Spring mounting pliers – This is used for the extraction and mounting of brake shoe retaining springs.

Spring hook – This is used to remove and fit springs on the brake system.

Other Braking Tools and Accessories

There are other tools and accessories that play a smaller role in the repair and maintenance of braking systems. They include:

Kneepad – This is used by drivers or mechanics to keep the knees safe while they are working in kneeling positions.

Chassis tester – This is used to check chassis bearings and detect bearing play.

Workshop cart – This is generally used in the maintenance and repair of vehicle parts, including the brakes.

Hookset – This is used in many workshops. For brake repair, it will serve as a holder for any work on the brakes.

Brake cleaner – The brake cleaner is just like the aerosol sprays. It is used to remove any deposits or debris from the components of a vehicle’s brake system.

How Can Brake Equipment Improve a Car?

A key aspect of safety in a car is the effectiveness of the braking system. As such, any driver should be armed with the right brake accessories so that they can repair and maintain the braking system whenever the need arises.

Brake equipment helps in multiple repair operations such as the change of brake pads and the adjustment of the brake shoes.

Well maintained brake systems allow a vehicle to stop or slow down whenever a driver needs to. For this reason, brake tools and accessories are a must-have for any car owner. It is important to note that certain repairs must be made by professional mechanics. Otherwise, you would be risking the failure of your brakes. The wheel brake cylinder is one crucial part of the braking system that should only be handled by trained specialists. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing or repairing any component of the braking system.

Generally, you don’t need to keep checking your brake system. You only need to follow the recommended service intervals. A garage will usually check your braking system as part of the regular service and maintenance sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Brake Tools & Accessories

What is the best material for brake lines?

The best materials for brake lines are:

  • Stainless Steel: Highly resistant to corrosion and offers excellent durability. Ideal for high-performance vehicles.
  • Copper-Nickel Alloy: Combines the benefits of copper and nickel, providing good corrosion resistance and flexibility.
  • Rubber: Commonly used for flexible brake lines, it offers good flexibility but may degrade over time due to heat and exposure to brake fluid.
  • PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene): Known for its chemical resistance and low friction, often used in high-performance applications.

How often should I change brake fluid?

It is generally recommended to change brake fluid every 2 years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, this can vary based on the vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines and driving conditions.

  • Check the owner's manual for specific recommendations.
  • Inspect brake fluid regularly for contamination or moisture.
  • Consider changing brake fluid more frequently if driving in harsh conditions.

What is a brake duct?

A brake duct is a component used in vehicles to enhance the cooling of the brake system. It directs airflow towards the brake components, helping to dissipate heat generated during braking. Key functions of brake ducts include:

  • Improving brake performance by maintaining optimal temperatures.
  • Reducing the risk of brake fade, which can occur when brakes overheat.
  • Extending the lifespan of brake components by preventing excessive heat buildup.
Brake ducts are commonly found in high-performance and racing vehicles, but they can also be beneficial in regular road cars, especially in demanding driving conditions.

Does anti-roll bar affect steering?

Yes, an anti-roll bar can affect steering. It plays a crucial role in maintaining vehicle stability during cornering, which indirectly influences steering response. Effects of an anti-roll bar on steering include:

  • Improved Handling: By reducing body roll, the anti-roll bar helps keep the tyres in better contact with the road, enhancing grip and steering precision.
  • Steering Feedback: A stiffer anti-roll bar can provide more direct feedback to the driver, making the steering feel more responsive.
  • Understeer/Oversteer Balance: The design and stiffness of the anti-roll bar can influence the balance of the vehicle, potentially leading to understeer or oversteer, which affects steering behaviour.

Is an anti-roll bar necessary?

An anti-roll bar, also known as a sway bar, is not strictly necessary for a vehicle to operate, but it plays a significant role in enhancing handling and stability. Benefits of an anti-roll bar include:

  • Improved Handling: It reduces body roll during cornering, allowing for better control.
  • Increased Stability: It helps maintain a level stance, improving traction and grip.
  • Enhanced Safety: By minimising roll, it can prevent loss of control in sharp turns.
While some vehicles may perform adequately without one, especially in everyday driving conditions, an anti-roll bar is particularly beneficial for performance-oriented cars or those frequently driven in challenging conditions.

How do anti-roll bars affect handling?

Anti-roll bars, also known as sway bars, play a crucial role in a vehicle's handling by reducing body roll during cornering. They connect the left and right sides of the suspension, helping to distribute weight more evenly across the vehicle. Effects on Handling:

  • Improved Stability: Anti-roll bars enhance stability by limiting the amount of body lean, allowing for better control during turns.
  • Increased Grip: By reducing body roll, they help maintain tyre contact with the road, improving grip and traction.
  • Enhanced Cornering Performance: They allow for sharper and more responsive cornering, making the vehicle feel more agile.
  • Reduced Understeer/Oversteer: Adjusting the stiffness of anti-roll bars can help balance the handling characteristics, reducing tendencies towards understeer or oversteer.

Is an anti-roll bar necessary?

An anti-roll bar, also known as a sway bar, is not strictly necessary for a vehicle to function, but it plays a significant role in enhancing handling and stability. Benefits of an anti-roll bar include:

  • Improved Handling: It reduces body roll during cornering, allowing for better control.
  • Increased Stability: It helps maintain a level stance, improving traction and grip.
  • Enhanced Safety: By minimising roll, it can prevent loss of control in sharp turns.
While some vehicles may perform adequately without one, especially in everyday driving conditions, performance-oriented cars typically benefit from having an anti-roll bar for optimal handling characteristics.

Can you bleed brakes on your own?

Yes, you can bleed brakes on your own with the right tools and technique. Here’s how to do it: Tools Needed:

  • Brake fluid
  • Wrench or socket set
  • Clear plastic tubing
  • Container to catch fluid
  • Helper (optional)
Steps to Bleed Brakes:
  1. Start by ensuring the vehicle is on a level surface and the engine is off.
  2. Locate the brake bleeder valve on each brake caliper or wheel cylinder.
  3. Attach the clear plastic tubing to the bleeder valve and place the other end in a container.
  4. Have someone pump the brake pedal several times and hold it down.
  5. Open the bleeder valve to release air and old fluid, then close it before your helper releases the brake pedal.
  6. Repeat this process until you see clear, bubble-free fluid in the tubing.
  7. Check the brake fluid level in the master cylinder and top it up as necessary.
Make sure to follow the specific instructions for your vehicle model, as procedures may vary.

How much does it cost to fix bleeding brakes?

The cost to fix bleeding brakes can vary based on several factors, including the make and model of the vehicle and the labour rates in your area. Generally, you can expect the following costs:

  • DIY Bleeding: If you choose to bleed the brakes yourself, the cost may be minimal, typically around £10 to £30 for brake fluid.
  • Professional Service: Hiring a mechanic can cost between £50 and £100, depending on the garage and the complexity of the brake system.
  • Additional Repairs: If there are underlying issues (e.g., leaks or damaged components), costs can increase significantly, potentially ranging from £100 to £500 or more.

How often should you bleed your brakes?

Bleeding your brakes is essential for maintaining optimal braking performance. It is generally recommended to bleed your brakes:

  • Every 1-2 years as part of regular maintenance.
  • Whenever you replace brake components, such as calipers or brake lines.
  • If you notice a spongy brake pedal or reduced braking performance.
  • After any brake fluid contamination or leaks.
Always refer to your vehicle's owner manual for specific recommendations related to your make and model.

Built by car enthusiasts, for enthusiasts, Compare Parts is the ultimate marketplace for car enthusiasts. 

Founded in 2008, we've been dedicated to bringing you the best in performance parts. Our marketplace offers top-quality car parts from leading brands worldwide, making it easy to compare car parts and find exactly what you need.
2008-2024 Bravr Ltd is a company registered in England and Wales | Company: 6045335 | VAT ID GB 917 288 301
"When in doubt, flat out" Colin McRae
My CP

Nothing to see here 😒

Your cart...💰

No products in the cart.

Cart
Theme
homeusercartcrosschevron-leftchevron-right