chattering brake pads

[lancialulu]

Not sure if this has been raised before.

The brake pads on my beta weren't fitted with any "fitting kit" when I got the car and the MOT man mentioned the pads were able to move up and down a tiny bit.

So I bought a fitting it from Bigg Red (see photo) which has a curly spring for each pad and some ceramic grease. I have fitted these one per pad and applied grease to the back of the pads and calliper "wedges". After a few miles I now get speed related front pad clacking noise which goes when the brakes are applied.

The brakes are fine (MOT) and there is absolutely no binding (wheels cool).

Have I fitted these incorrectly |(no instructions)? Or do I need to springs per pad (there were only 4 in the set/4 pads).

Noise is driving me crazy!

[peteracs]

Hi Tim

I just have pads fitted, copper slip on backs and wedges, no noise etc. Not noticed that pads move, but there will be a very small amount of movement of course, but definitely not much. Maybe swap pads for different brand?

Peter

[lancialulu]

Hi Tim

I just have pads fitted, copper slip on backs and wedges, no noise etc. Not noticed that pads move, but there will be a very small amount of movement of course, but definitely not much. Maybe swap pads for different brand?

Peter

The chattering did not start for a while. I re looked at the pads (good Lockheed brand I think) and springly things and it did not make a noise for a few miles then clack clack....... Of course I did not clean off the ceramic grease.... Idid not measure the free movement but <0.5mm - the slots in the caliper guides were not worn...

[peteracs]

Hi Tim

All a bit odd, is it both sides?

Peter

[SanRemo78]

I'd usually suspect the clacking noise is because the pads are being picked up by the rotating disc and then dropped, especially if there is any run out on the discs. I'd suggest the springs should be underneath the pad but in our cars, with the pads being infront of the axle line the disc rotation shouldn't be picking up the pads at all. Gravity and disc rotation should keep them firmly located in the carriers. Try the pad sets with springs top and bottom next? The only other cause I can think of it the pads moving horizontally in the carriers but I can't think of anything that would cause that.

[betabuoy]

Hi Tim,
I've used a variety of pads over the years and always fitted simply with clean wedges and copper slip.  Never used those springy things and I wonder if they're reaching some harmonic resonance once the pads settle in? 
I'd remove the springy things and keep it simple.
Chris   

[Nigel]

The pad springs were always factory fitment.
They go at the top, but it's important to position then correctly.
The notch in the pad accepts the correct part of the spring perfectly.
( a picture would help of course! none to hand)

The pad is meant to sit solid at the bottom (rotation end) and the
spring stops rattle and keeps the pad in the 'braking' position.

Cleanliness of the pad carriers is important, and debris or rust is not welcome.
I always apply a very thin layer of copper grease between the pad and carrier.

Finally, the wedges must be fitted thick-end facing the wheel, inserted from the back,
with the retaining clips outermost.

Nigel