Abstract: Noise from track retarders is significantly reduced by a brake shoe which dampens vibrations as continuous braking action of a wheel occurs. The brake shoe is adapted to have selectively variable brake surface configurations which contribute to reduced vibration. A special metal alloy, typically a flake-graphite bearing iron with vibration suppression characteristics lubricates the braking surface and lessens wheel oscillations during braking. The lubrication also contributes to uniform surface temperatures along the braking surface which lessens the tendency for the braking to fade. The brake shoe is basically a self-lubricated surface of variable contact area configuration.