Brake Lining Inspection (Disc Brakes)
Inspect the brake linings every 6,000 miles and any time the wheels are removed. Check both ends of the outer lining by looking in at each end of the caliper. These are the points where the highest rate of wear normally occurs. At the same time, check the thicknessof the inner lining to make sure it has not worn prematurely. Some inboard shoe and linings have a thermal layer against the shoe, integrally molded with the lining. This extra layer should not be confused with uneven inboard-outboard lining wear. Look down through the inspection hole in the top of the caliper to view the inner lining. Replace shoe and lining assemblies whenever the thickness of any lining is worn to within .030" (.76 mm) of the shoe. Replace riveted shoe and lining assemblies when the lining is worn to within .030" (.76 mm) of any rivet head. Always replace disc brake shoe and lining assemblies as a complete axle set. Check the flatness of the linings. Place the inboard and outboard lining surfaces together and check for a gap between the surfaces. This gap should be no larger than .005" (.13 mm) at the center of the lining surfaces. This applies to new or used shoe and lining assemblies. The shoe and lining assemblies have a wear indicator that makes noise when the linings are worn and need replacement.