Abstract: A method of forming a stamped metal laminate part from a strip stock with a layer of viscoelastic material laminated between two metal layers, and a laminated abutment clip made by the method. Part carriers are disposed on the sides of the stock. A longitudinal axis extends between the part carriers through the stock. The stock is advanced through a progressive die to a first position where a first form is created, a second position, where a second form is created by modifying the first form, and to a third position where a third form is created. Relative sliding of the metal layers in the stock is prevented between the axis and the form being created, and relative sliding of the metal layers is permitted at a section beyond the particular form being created, preventing delamination of the stock while the first, second and third forms are formed.

Abstract: A friction pad drag reduction assembly for reducing drag between a rotor and friction pads, wherein the assembly comprises one or more pad spreaders that upon a removal of the braking force, urge the friction pads away from the rotor. The invention is also directed to the pad spreaders themselves and to methods of assembling friction pad drag reduction assemblies that includes one or more of the pad spreaders.

Abstract: A shim for use in a braking subassembly comprising a metal backing plate comprising a first side surface, wherein the shim comprises at least one flexible tab extending from an edge thereof for assisting in coupling the shim to the backing plate along a backing plate side surface thereof, and wherein the at least one flexible tab comprises an integrally formed and extending finger therefrom, wherein the finger has a leading edge that frictionally engages the backing plate edge surface when the shim is subjected to a separation force, which, relative to the backing plate, has a directional component at least essentially parallel to and in the same direction as the direction in which the finger extends; whereby the shim is resisted from separating from the first side surface of the backing plate at least in part by the frictional resistance of the leading edge of the finger against the backing plate side surface.

Abstract: A subassembly for use in a brake assembly, the subassembly comprising a shim, a backing plate and a friction pad formed of a friction pad material, wherein the friction pad material extends into at least one pass-through hole in the backing plate; and wherein one or more flanges perimetering at least one opening in the shim are encased in the friction material; whereby the shim is resisted from movement at least in part by the one or more flanges being encased in the friction pad material. A preferred methodology of forming the braking subassembly comprises the steps of forming the friction pad on the backing plate and at least partially filling the at least one pass-through hole with said friction pad material such that the one or more flanges perimetering the at least one opening in the shim is encased in the friction pad material.