Brake System

Measuring Drum Brake Shoes

~1min read
Смотровое отверстие для контроля толщины накладок заднего барабанного тормозного

The inspection hole for checking the lining thickness of the rear drum brake is located in the backing plate, on the front side in the direction of travel. With the cover removed, the brake shoe (1) with the friction lining (2) bonded to it is visible. The brake drum (3) is also visible.


Since the leading shoe wears faster than the trailing shoe, the thickness should be measured on the front shoe.


PROCEDURE

Raise the rear of the vehicle.

Remove the plastic cap on the inside of the corresponding front wheel backing plate.

Shine a flashlight through the inspection hole and determine the shoe thickness.

Shoes may be worn down to 2.5 mm remaining lining thickness, not including the backing plate. Otherwise, they must be replaced.

Test yourself

A quick Audi 80 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.