Abstract: The present invention is predicated upon a brake caliper assembly, comprising a finger portion including a first end that is free and a second end, an inner surface and an outer surface, a cylinder portion including a first end that is free and a second end, an inner surface and an outer surface, and a bridge portion, including an inner surface and an outer surface, for connecting with the second end of the finger portion at a finger corner region having an inner surface and an outer surface, and for connecting with the second end of the cylinder portion at a cylinder corner region having an inner surface and an outer surface, and for defining a continuous surface that includes the inner surfaces of each of the finger portion, the cylinder portion, the finger corner region, the cylinder corner region and the bridge portion, wherein the inner surface of at least one of the finger or cylinder corner regions includes an inclined surface that is generally flat for a span of at least about 2 mm.

Abstract: The present invention is predicated upon improved brake rotors and methods of forming thereof which include tangential stiffening to reduce vibration and noise of the brake rotor.

Abstract: A drum brake includes a spider having an anchor with as-cast recesses and anchor seats machined within the as-cast recesses. The as-cast recesses provide clearance for a shaft of a cutting tool during machining of the anchor seats. First and second brake shoes are pivotally supported by the anchor. Each brake shoe has a convex web portion positioned in communication with one of the anchor seats to transfer braking loads to the spider.

Abstract: A brake caliper has a retention spring to eliminate excessive movement of the pressure plates or pad pin with respect to the caliper housing. The retention spring has a pad pin contacting portion to exert a force on the pad pin. The spring includes a retention portion continuous with the pad pin portion to provide counterforce to maintain the pad pin in position.

Abstract: A disc brake caliper assembly is provided including a support bracket, a pair of slide pins, and a caliper body. The support bracket includes an inboard rail and an outboard rail. The inboard rail defines a pair of engagement bores. The pair of slide pins engage the pair of engagement bores. The caliper body slidably engages the pair of slide pins. The caliper body includes an inboard portion and an outboard portion. The inboard and outboard portions balance each other such that the caliper body has a center of gravity that is substantially axially aligned with the location of engagement between the slide pins and the engagement bores.

Abstract: A caliper assembly has a one-piece housing with a first and second wall opposing one another. A pair of bridge sides connect the first and second walls. A bore is formed in the first wall to receive a piston assembly. An opening is formed between the first wall, second wall and pair of bridge sides. The opening enables access into the caliper body. At least one aperture is formed in the second wall. The aperture is continuous with the opening to enable access into the body.