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Trailing Brake Shoe

Definition:

  • Trailing Brake Shoe: The brake shoe that is installed facing the rear of the vehicle. It is also referred to as the secondary brake shoe or reverse brake shoe.

Characteristics and Function:

  1. Positioning:
  • Location: The trailing brake shoe is positioned at the rear end of the brake assembly, opposite to the leading brake shoe.
  • Orientation: It faces towards the back of the vehicle.
  1. Types of Brake Systems:
  • Drum Brakes: Trailing brake shoes are typically found in drum brake systems, where they work in conjunction with the leading brake shoe to create friction and slow down the vehicle.
  1. Function:
  • Braking Action: When the brake pedal is pressed, hydraulic pressure forces the trailing brake shoe against the brake drum, creating friction to slow or stop the vehicle.
  • Self-Energizing Effect: Unlike the leading brake shoe, the trailing brake shoe does not benefit from the self-energizing effect, where the rotation of the drum helps pull the shoe tighter against it. This makes the trailing shoe less effective in generating braking force compared to the leading shoe.
  1. Material:
  • Friction Material: The trailing brake shoe is typically lined with a friction material that provides the necessary resistance to slow down the vehicle. This material must withstand high temperatures and wear.
  1. Wear and Maintenance:
  • Wear Rate: Trailing brake shoes generally wear more slowly than leading brake shoes due to the difference in braking force and self-energizing effect.
  • Replacement: Regular inspection and timely replacement of the trailing brake shoe are crucial to maintaining effective braking performance and safety.

Benefits:

  1. Balanced Braking:
  • The combination of leading and trailing brake shoes ensures balanced braking forces within the drum brake system, contributing to smooth and effective braking.
  1. Cost-Effectiveness:
  • Drum brake systems, including trailing brake shoes, are often more cost-effective to manufacture and maintain compared to disc brake systems.
  1. Simplicity:
  • Trailing brake shoes are part of a simpler mechanical design, making them easier to service and replace.

The trailing brake shoe, also known as the secondary or reverse brake shoe, is an essential component of drum brake systems, positioned at the rear of the brake assembly. It plays a crucial role in creating friction against the brake drum to slow or stop the vehicle, though it lacks the self-energizing effect of the leading brake shoe. Regular maintenance and replacement are necessary to ensure effective braking performance and vehicle safety.

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