Disc Brake Retractor

Disc brake retractor FARM SHOP Miscellaneous 11-5-7 "It forces disc brake pads to retract from the rotor," says Leon Boeck, Easton, Minn., about his made-it-myself disc brake retractor for cars, trucks, motorhomes and farm equipment. Boeck says the problem is that after the brakes are applied, and the pads press against the rotor to stop the vehicle, the only force that retracts the pads is the tendency of the piston seal to return to its original position. "In most cases, especially with vehicles that are not driven regularly, this force is not enough. The result is that unretracted pads drag on the rotor causing excessive pad, disc and tire wear, early wheel bearing failure, reduced fuel mileage, front wheel shimmy, and steering instability. Front wheel brake drag is particularly dangerous on icy roads. Some combines, and other self-propelled farm equipment, also have problems because they're only in use for part of the year and the brakes stiffen up." The retractor designed by Boeck provides direct mechanical means to retract the pads. It consists of a U-shaped metal bracket that fits over the back side of the brake piston housing. Holes are drilled and tapped in the back side of the inside brake pad, and the rods threaded into the holes and springs fitted over the rods. When the brake is applied, it compresses the springs against the brake housing. When the brake is released, the springs pull the pad back away from the rotor. Boeck says the retractor will work on any disc brakes. He bought all the parts to make a set of retractors for less than $5.00. He's looking for a manufacturer. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Leon Boeck, Rt. 1, Box 138, Easton, Minn. 56025 (ph 507 787-2565).

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