Braking 32 www.aftermarketonline.net MAY 2025 CV braking supplier, Fras-le, is offering guidance on how to address some common brake drum issues such as heat checks and martensite spotting. Heat checking appears as fine, hairline cracks on the braking surface and is caused by the normal heating and cooling process during braking. While typically not problematic, if these cracks grow into larger ones, the brake drum must be replaced, warns Fras-le. Martensite spotting is another concern, and is visible as dark, raised spots on the drum’s surface. This occurs when the drum is subjected to extremely high temperatures, which can change the material’s structure and make it more vulnerable to cracking. Both the drum and the brake linings should be replaced in this case, and the cause of the overheating must be addressed. Blued brake drums, often caused by repeated hard stops, brake system imbalance or faulty return springs, can also be an issue. While these drums may not require immediate replacement, the brake system should be checked for balance and return springs should be inspected for wear or damage, advises Fras-le. If left unresolved, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as cracking. Broken mounting rings, caused by improper drum installation or hub issues, must also be addressed immediately. The hub should be checked for defects and cleaned or replaced if necessary, and the drum must be replaced if any cracks are found, advises the braking supplier. Fras-le brake drums are crafted with precision to ensure superior performance and reliability. Each drum undergoes an exact casting process, producing uniform wall thickness for consistent thermal expansion, minimising brake judder and vibration, and ensuring even brake stress distribution. To guarantee quality, every batch is rigorously tested for metallurgical composition, hardness and tensile strength. Manufactured from highgrade cast iron, the drums are cooled at a constant controlled temperature for optimal hardness and durability. In line with the highest standards, Fras-le brake drums are UN ECE R90:02 certified, meeting stringent regulations for braking performance, product integrity and manufacturing quality. Designed to provide a smooth finish with sharp cutting tools, these brake drums deliver the reliable, high-quality performance expected from Fras-le. www.fras-le.uk LKQ Euro Car Parts has made a significant investment into bolstering its braking offering, ensuring that customers can benefit from access to the most extensive range of products, parts and consumables available on the market. The move comes ahead of the beginning of MOT season, with data from the DVSA showing that faulty brakes account for 29% of dangerous MOT defects, making them the second most common cause behind tyres at 60%. The new investment will improve stock profiling and availability of the business’ industry-leading braking range across its 280-branch network, allowing it to maintain rapid levels of service throughout times of peak demand. This includes leading original equipment brands such as Brembo — for which LKQ Euro Car Parts has the largest stock holding and range in the UK — and aftermarket specialists such as Eicher, offering an affordable aftermarket solution. LKQ Euro Car parts is also the exclusive supplier of Pagid braking products to the UK aftermarket and has been for the past 15 years. Pagid delivers unmatched quality and reliability developed throughout 75 years of service to the industry. This expanded offering will be underpinned by LKQ Euro Car Parts’ industry-first wear and tear braking warranty, which covers customers against damage to the product that occurs during in ordinary use within the stated period. Matt Robinson, B2B trade director at LKQ Euro Car Parts, said: “With braking issues accounting for such a high proportion of MOT defects, it’s incredibly important to us that our product range caters to all customers — whether they need a leading aftermarket product or original equipment. This investment means that not only can we offer this variety, but that customers can access it quickly and reliably and remain safe on the roads. “With no other factor offering the same level of protection, we’re continuing to position ourselves at the forefront of braking innovation and excellence.” www.eurocarparts.com Factor invests in braking boost for MOT season Putting brake drum issues under inspection
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