Q: How Should I Inspect and Refinish a Brake Disc?
A: The manufacturer suggests using a specialized brake lathe for disc refinishing, but it is not essential. To begin the inspection, loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle, and remove the wheel. It is not necessary to disconnect the brake hose. Suspend the caliper out of the way with wire after removing the caliper bolts. Reinstall the lug nuts to hold the disc against the hub, and visually check the disc surface for damage. Deep score marks or cracks may require disc refinishing or replacement. To check disc run out, use a dial indicator and turn the disc. If the reading exceeds the maximum allowable run out limit, the disc will need to be machined or replaced. If disc refinishing or replacement is not necessary, deglaze the Brake Pad surface on the disc with sandpaper or emery cloth. The disc must not be machined to a thickness less than the specified minimum refinish thickness, which can be checked with a micrometer. To remove and install the disc, remove the caliper mounting bracket and mark the disc in relation to the hub. Clean the hub flange and inside of the brake disc, then install the disc onto the hub assembly. Install the caliper mounting bracket, brake pads, and caliper. Finally, install the wheel, lower the vehicle, and tighten the wheel lug nuts. Depress the brake pedal to bring the brake pads into contact with the disc and check the operation of the brakes before normal use.