Mitsubishi pajero brake backing plate

Types of mitsubishi pajero brake backing plate

The Mitsubishi Pajero brake backing plate, also known as the brake drum support or brake shield, is a vital part of the Pajero's brake system. Its primary function is to protect the brakes from various elements such as dirt, debris, and water. This backing plate is found at the rear and front ends of the Pajero's brake system. Generally, the Mitsubishi Pajero brake backing plate can be divided into two types based on the design of the brake system. They include:

• Disc brake backing plate: Most modern vehicles, including the Mitsubishi Pajero, are designed with disc brakes. This is because disc brakes offer better braking performance, especially in high-speed and heavy braking situations. The brake backing plate in disc brake systems has a curved metal design that fits between the brake rotor and the wheel. This plate acts as a shield, protecting the brake parts from flying debris and dirt that can get into the brake system and affect its performance. The disc brake backing plates are usually manufactured from hardened steel, which is corrosion resistant. This makes them ideal for the abrasive environment found in brake systems. The plates also have a flat surface that is slightly raised in some areas to fit the brake components. The backing plates are available in different sizes and thicknesses to meet specific vehicle requirements.
• Drum brake backing plate: Drum brakes are another type of brake system found in many vehicles. Generally, drum brakes use friction between the brake shoes and the inside surface of a rotating drum to slow down or stop the vehicle. Like disc brakes, drum brakes also require a backing plate. The Mitsubishi Pajero brake backing plate for drum brakes is located outside the brake drum. It acts as a support structure for the brake shoes and the rest of the brake components. The design of the drum brake backing plate is similar to that of a shallow bowl. It is made of steel and has a round shape that fits the brake drum's outer surface. The plates also have holes and a tapered shape that allow them to be mounted on the suspension or chassis. Like disc brake backing plates, drum brake backing plates are also available in different sizes to meet vehicle requirements.

Specification and maintenance of Mitsubishi Pajero brake backing plates

Specifications of the brake backing plates for the Mitsubishi Pajero vary depending on the vehicle's model and year. Some of the general specifications include:

• Size

  The brake backing plates have different sizes depending on the vehicle's model. The sizes are measured in diameters and inches. For instance, the Mitsubishi Pajero 2006 model, which has a 3.0L V6 engine, uses a brake backing plate with a 10.2" diameter.

• Material

  The backing plates are made from durable materials. Common materials used include steel and aluminum alloys. The plates made from steel are resistant to corrosion. Those made from aluminum alloys are lightweight.

• Design

  Generally, the brake backing plates are round and flat. Their design is usually influenced by the type of brake system used in the Mitsubishi Pajero. For instance, the 2008 Mitsubishi Pajero, which has a 3.8L V6 engine, uses a brake system with ventilated discs in the front and solid discs in the rear. This means its brake backing plates will be designed to fit the ventilated and solid disc brakes.

• Thickness

  The thickness of the brake backing plates also varies depending on the model and year of the Mitsubishi Pajero. The plates are usually 0.12" to 0.2" thick.

• Mounting

  The Mitsubishi Pajero brake backing plates are mounted using bolts. The number of bolts and their spacing depends on the specific model. For example, the Pajero 2010 model's rear wheels have backing plates mounted using six bolts.

Maintaining the brake backing plates is important to ensure the brakes work efficiently and increase their lifespan. Below are some tips on how to maintain the plates.

• Inspection

  Regularly inspecting the backing plates helps users detect any wear or damage early. The plates should be inspected for cracks, rust, or bending. Any damage found should be repaired or replaced immediately.

• Cleaning

  The brake backing plates should be cleaned regularly to remove dirt and dust. Accumulated dirt on the plates can cause rust and affect the backing plates' performance. When cleaning the plates, users should avoid using high-pressure water jets or abrasive chemicals, as they can damage the plates.

• Lubrication

  The brake backing plates' moving parts should be lubricated regularly. The lubrication reduces friction and prevents wear. The right lubricant should be used to ensure it works efficiently and to the backing plates' materials.

• Proper installation

  When replacing the brake backing plates, they should be installed properly. The plates should be mounted securely to prevent them from falling off or bending. The backing plates should also be installed in the right position to ensure even wear and efficient braking.

How to Choose Mitsubishi Pajero Brake Backing Plates

• Vehicle Compatibility

  When selecting brake backing plates, it is important to ensure that they are compatible with the Mitsubishi Pajero's make, model, and year. This is because the brake system's design may differ across various vehicles. Using backing plates that are not compatible with the vehicle may lead to improper brake function and potential safety hazards.

• Quality and Durability

  Quality and durable brake backing plates are essential for the proper functioning of brakes and overall vehicle safety. High-quality plates ensure even brake shoe support, reducing the risk of brake failure and extending the lifespan of brake components. Moreover, durable plates, particularly those made of corrosion-resistant materials, enhance the backing plate's longevity, thus saving on replacement costs. Ultimately, quality and durable plates promote consistent brake performance, ensuring driver and passenger safety.

• Material

  The Mitsubishi Pajero brake backing plate is made from various materials, such as steel and aluminum. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, steel plates are durable and corrosion-resistant, making them suitable for rough terrain. On the other hand, aluminum plates are lightweight and rust-resistant, which improves braking performance. Consider the backing plate material based on the braking system's requirements and the vehicle's operating environment.

• Price

  When purchasing brake backing plates for a vehicle, cost is an important aspect to consider. Plates from well-known brands and those with higher quality are normally more expensive. However, this should not be a hindrance, as the plates are a worthy investment that ensures the backing plate's longevity and the vehicle's safety. Additionally, Alibaba.com offers users various backing plates from different suppliers, enabling them to find a plate that matches their budget.

• Warranty

  The warranty is an important factor to consider when purchasing a Mitsubishi Pajero brake backing plate. A good warranty is a sign of the manufacturer's confidence in the quality and durability of the plate. Moreover, the warranty offers users free repair or replacement of the plate in case of damage or defect, thus saving on additional costs.

How to Replace Mitsubishi Pajero Brake Backing Plate

Following a step-by-step guide for replacing brake backing plates will help people do it right. Here's how to replace a Mitsubishi Pajero brake backing plate:

• Prepare the Vehicle

  Firstly, the vehicle should be parked on a flat surface and the parking brake applied. The wheel covers and hubcaps should be removed and the relevant wheel loosened with a lug wrench. After this, the vehicle should be raised with a jack and wheel chocks placed under the opposing wheel on the ground. The jack stands should be set up to provide additional support.

• Remove the Wheel

  Then, the wheel-nuts should be completely removed and the wheel taken off.

• Remove Brake Components

  Subsequently, the brake components should be noted and their positions recorded. The brake pads and caliper should be removed next. After this, the brake rotor should be removed, and the brake backing plate should be accessed.

• Disconnect the Brake Backing Plate

  At this point, any brake lines connected to the brake backing plate should be disconnected. The brake backing plate should be unbolted and any retaining clips or fasteners should be removed.

• Remove the Old Brake Backing Plate

  The old brake backing plate should be removed from the suspension components. If the brake backing plate is corroded or damaged, it should be noted.

• Install the New Brake Backing Plate

  The new brake backing plate should be aligned with the mounting points on the suspension components. The brake backing plate should be secured with bolts, retaining clips, or fasteners, and any components should be reconnected to the brake backing plate.

• Reassemble the Brake System

  The brake backing plate installation process should be reversed. The brake backing plate, brake pads, and caliper should be installed. After this, the wheel should be reinstalled and the wheel-nuts should be tightened in a crisscross pattern.

• Complete the Brake System Reassembly

  At this point, the brake system components should be reassembled. The brake components should be reassembled according to the initial notes. The brake system should be bled to remove any air, and the brake lines should be checked for leaks and tightened if necessary.

• Final Checks

  Finally, the wheel-nuts should be torqued to the manufacturer's specifications, and the vehicle should be lowered off the jack stands. The wheel covers or hubcaps should be reinstalled, and the wheel wells and surrounding areas should be cleaned. A test drive should be done to ensure the brakes function properly, and a visual inspection should be done to confirm all components are correctly installed.

Q&A

Q1: What are brake backing plates?

A1: Backing plates are an important part of rear disc brakes. They are used to support brake components such as brake cylinders, brake shoes, and brake adjusters. Backing plates help maintain proper alignment and positioning of these components, ensuring effective braking performance.

Q2: Do all vehicles have brake backing plates?

A2: No, not all vehicles have backing plates. Most rear drum brakes have backing plates. However, many modern vehicles, especially those with rear disc brakes, do not require backing plates.

Q3: Can users drive without a brake backing plate?

A3: It is not advisable to drive without a brake backing plate. Backing plates provide support and alignment for brake components. Without them, the brake system may not function properly, leading to decreased braking performance and safety risks.