In this article, Disc Brakes Australia (DBA) discusses the key role of clean wheel hubs in brake performance

Mechanics know that every detail matters, especially when it comes to safety-critical parts such as brakes.
One often-overlooked step that can save you time, money, and headaches is cleaning the wheel hubs.
While it might seem like a minor task, skipping this step can lead to issues like brake pulsation and uneven wear, resulting in customer dissatisfaction.
Disc Brakes Australia (DBA) says hub cleaning is best practice, which can elevate your workshop’s reputation for quality work.
The overlooked step which can help prevent costly brake issues
The wheel hub is the foundation for the brake rotor. If it is not clean and flat, the rotor won’t sit properly, leading to performance and safety issues.
DBA notes the following as reasons why cleaning the wheel hub should be part of every rotor installation:

1. Prevents Disc Thickness Variation (DTV): uneven mounting surfaces caused by rust, dirt, or old coatings can result in brake rotor runout, leading to uneven pad material deposits on the rotor surface. This, in turn, causes brake pulsation and steering wheel vibration. Cleaning the hub reduces the risk of DTV and ensures smooth operation.
2. Ensures proper rotor alignment: a clean hub guarantees the rotor spins true, avoiding premature wear on both the rotor and brake pads.
3. Maximises rotor lifespan: a properly seated rotor wears evenly and resists hot spots and warping, ensuring it lasts longer and performs better.
4. Reduces comebacks and customer complaints: customers expect flawless brake performance after a rotor replacement. Proper hub cleaning helps deliver just that, minimising the chances of comebacks and keeping customers satisfied.

What happens when hub cleaning is skipped?
Even the best rotors can’t compensate for a poorly cleaned hub. DBA explains that the following can go wrong:
• Brake pulsation and vibration: uneven hubs often lead to a pulsating brake pedal or steering wheel vibration, which customers notice immediately.
• Premature rotor wear: uneven surfaces cause hot spots and warping, reducing the rotor’s lifespan and increasing costs.
• Noise and squealing: debris or rust on the hub can create uneven contact between the rotor and brake pads, leading to unwanted noises.
• Safety risks: improper rotor alignment compromises braking performance, increasing stopping distances and posing safety hazards.
• Damaged reputation: repeated brake issues after a service can tarnish your workshop’s reputation and drive customers elsewhere.

Six steps to a perfect rotor install
DBA states that cleaning wheel hubs is straightforward and ensures proper rotor alignment and performance – it explains the following as the required steps:

1. Remove the old rotor: take off the wheel and old rotor, then inspect the hub for rust, dirt, or old coatings.
2. Scrub the hub surface: use a wire brush, abrasive pad, or hub cleaning tool to remove debris and corrosion. For tougher spots, a rotary tool or sandpaper works well.
3. Wipe down the hub: clean the hub with a cloth or brake cleaner to remove any leftover particles.
4. Check for flatness: use a straightedge or feeler gauge to confirm the hub is flat. Resurface or replace it if damaged.
5. Check for runout: a dial gauge is recommended to check the hub for any lateral runout or eccentricity.
6. Install the new rotor: mount the new rotor and torque the wheel nuts to spec.

Precision-driven quality from DBA
DBA says precision is at the heart of every one of its rotors. During the manufacturing process, each rotor is precision-checked to ensure flatness within five microns – just five thousandths of a millimetre – ensuring optimal performance.
DBA says this meticulous attention to detail minimises runout and guarantees top-tier performance right out of the box.
With its commitment to quality, DBA says you can install its rotors with confidence, knowing they meet and exceed industry standards.

A small step with big benefits
Taking a few extra minutes to clean the wheel hubs can make all the difference, says DBA, which states it ensures proper rotor alignment, prevents comebacks, and keeps your customers satisfied.
Most importantly, it helps your workshop maintain its reputation for delivering quality work.
By making hub cleaning a standard part of your brake service process, DBA says you’ll not only achieve better results but also build lasting trust with your customers – after all, a job done right the first time is a job that doesn’t come back.

For information, visit www.dba.com.au or contact your nearest DBA distributor.