1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, maintenance, and general understanding of your BOSCH BS888 Blue Parking Brake Shoe Set. Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure optimal performance and longevity of the product. For safety, it is highly recommended that installation and maintenance be performed by a qualified automotive professional.
2. Product Overview
The BOSCH BS888 Blue Parking Brake Shoe Set is engineered to deliver consistent and superior braking performance. These brake shoes are designed with 100 percent asbestos-free friction formulations, ensuring extended wear and long life. The set includes all new steel construction for durability and OE-style design for proper fitment.
Figure 2.1: The BOSCH BS888 Blue Parking Brake Shoe Set. This image displays four individual brake shoes, two for each side of the vehicle's parking brake assembly. The shoes feature a dark grey friction material bonded to a black metal backing plate, with some components showing a brass or gold-colored finish. The design ensures proper fit and function within the parking brake system.
Key Features:
- Rust Inhibitive Coating: Prevents rust and extends durability of the brake shoes.
- Asbestos-Free Friction Formulations: Ensures extended wear, consistent braking performance, and long life.
- OE-Style Design: Guarantees proper fit and function within the vehicle's braking system.
- 100% All New Steel Construction: Provides durable construction for long-lasting performance.
- Complete Kit: Pins and levers are included where applicable, facilitating easy installation.
3. Installation
Installation of parking brake shoes requires specialized tools and knowledge. It is strongly recommended that this procedure be performed by a certified mechanic or an experienced automotive technician.
General Installation Steps (Professional Installation Recommended):
- Safety First: Ensure the vehicle is securely lifted and supported on jack stands. Disconnect the battery if necessary.
- Remove Wheel and Brake Drum/Rotor: Carefully remove the wheel and then the brake drum or rotor to access the parking brake assembly.
- Document Existing Setup: Take photos or make diagrams of the existing brake shoe assembly, including spring and lever placements, before disassembly. This will aid in reassembly.
- Remove Old Brake Shoes: Carefully detach all springs, clips, and levers, then remove the old brake shoes. Note the condition of other components like the wheel cylinder or caliper.
- Clean and Inspect: Clean the backing plate and inspect all associated hardware for wear or damage. Replace any worn components.
- Install New Brake Shoes: Install the new BOSCH BS888 brake shoes, ensuring all springs, levers, and clips are correctly positioned according to your documentation. Apply a thin layer of high-temperature grease to contact points on the backing plate where the shoes slide.
- Adjust Parking Brake: After installation, adjust the parking brake cable tension according to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications to ensure proper engagement and disengagement.
- Reassemble and Test: Reinstall the brake drum/rotor and wheel. Lower the vehicle and perform a functional test of the parking brake in a safe environment.
Refer to your vehicle's specific service manual for detailed, model-specific installation instructions.
4. Functionality and Usage Notes
The BOSCH BS888 Blue Parking Brake Shoe Set is designed exclusively for the vehicle's parking brake system. These shoes engage with the inner surface of the brake drum (or a dedicated drum within a disc brake rotor) to hold the vehicle stationary when parked.
- Purpose: The parking brake (also known as the emergency brake or handbrake) is intended to keep the vehicle stationary when parked, especially on inclines, and as a backup in case of primary brake failure.
- Proper Engagement: Always ensure the parking brake is fully engaged when parking the vehicle. On manual transmission vehicles, it is also advisable to leave the vehicle in gear.
- Avoid Driving with Parking Brake Engaged: Driving with the parking brake partially or fully engaged can cause excessive wear, overheating, and damage to the brake shoes and drum, leading to premature failure.
5. Maintenance
Regular inspection and maintenance of your vehicle's braking system, including the parking brake shoes, are crucial for safety and performance. It is recommended to have your parking brake system inspected during routine vehicle service.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular Inspection: Have the parking brake shoes and associated hardware inspected for wear, corrosion, and proper adjustment at least once a year or every 12,000 miles (20,000 km), whichever comes first.
- Check for Wear: Look for signs of excessive wear on the friction material. If the material is thin or unevenly worn, replacement is necessary.
- Lubrication: Ensure all moving parts, such as levers and pivot points, are clean and properly lubricated with high-temperature brake grease.
- Cable Inspection: Inspect the parking brake cable for fraying, corrosion, or damage. Ensure it moves freely without binding.
- Keep Clean: Keep the brake assembly free from dirt, dust, and debris, which can accelerate wear and reduce effectiveness.
6. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your parking brake system, consult the following common troubleshooting scenarios. For complex issues, professional diagnosis and repair are advised.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Parking brake does not hold vehicle. | Worn brake shoes, stretched parking brake cable, improper adjustment. | Inspect and replace worn shoes. Adjust parking brake cable tension. Inspect cable for damage. |
| Parking brake feels loose or travels too far. | Cable stretch, improper adjustment, worn shoes. | Adjust parking brake cable. Inspect and replace worn shoes. |
| Squealing or grinding noise when parking brake is applied. | Contaminated or worn shoes, rust on drum surface, improper installation. | Inspect shoes for contamination or wear and replace if necessary. Clean drum surface. Re-check installation. |
| Parking brake remains partially engaged. | Sticking cable, seized lever, improper adjustment. | Lubricate or replace cable. Free up seized levers. Adjust parking brake. |
If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, seek assistance from a qualified automotive technician.
7. Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Bosch |
| Model Number | BS888 |
| Item Weight | Approximately 1 pound |
| Product Dimensions | Approximately 1 x 1 x 1 inches (packaging/shipping dimensions) |
| Exterior Finish | Machined |
| Friction Material | 100% Asbestos-Free |
| Construction | 100% All New Steel |
| Compatibility | Compatible with Select Chevrolet Spark EV, Suzuki Forenza, Reno, Verona |
Note: Specifications are subject to change without notice. Always verify compatibility with your specific vehicle model before purchase and installation.
8. Warranty Information
Bosch products are manufactured to high-quality standards and are backed by a manufacturer's warranty. The specific terms and duration of the warranty may vary. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For detailed warranty information, including coverage, limitations, and how to make a claim, please refer to the official Bosch Automotive website or contact Bosch customer service directly. Warranty typically covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service.
9. Customer Support
Should you require further assistance, have questions regarding installation, or need to report an issue with your BOSCH BS888 Blue Parking Brake Shoe Set, please contact Bosch customer support.
- Online Resources: Visit the official Bosch Automotive website for product information, FAQs, and technical documents.
- Contact Information: Refer to the Bosch Automotive website or product packaging for the most current customer service contact details (phone numbers, email, or contact forms).
- Professional Assistance: For installation or complex diagnostic issues, always consult a certified automotive technician.