Abstract: A leaf spring (76) for holding down the pad backplate (72) and the pressure distributor plate, if any, in the pad opening of a disc brake at one side rests on a movable frame (12) of the brake and at the other side pressurizes the lining backplate and the pressure distributor plate, if any. The leaf spring (76) is designed such that, in relaxed condition, it has an arched center portion (106) which is followed at either end by an at least approximately straight side portion (108,108') the end portions (84,84') of which are fixed at the lining backplate and pressure distributor plate, respectively, in the direction of extension of the leaf spring. This is to assure reliable hold-down even at great accelerations in spite of the fact that the brake linings remain easy to be applied and released. Such a leaf spring provides a favorable hold-down characteristic for the lining backplate and the pressure distributor plate without impeding the venting of the brake.

Abstract: A casing (10) has a bore (14) and a clutch face (48) concentric with the bore. In the bore (14) a tappet (30) of variable length is slidably guided and includes two threaded members (34,36) interconnected by a self-locking screw thread pair (38). A clutch member (50) connected to one of the two threaded members (34) by a non-self-locking screw thread pair (52) is associated with the clutch face (48). A support member (60 ) having an aperture (68) through which the other one of the two threaded members (36) extends is fixed to the casing (10). A clutch spring (70) is inserted between the support member (60) and the clutch member (50) and urges the clutch member (50) into abutment against the clutch face (48). A sealing boot (72) which is disposed outside of the support member (60) with respect to the casing (10) provides an external seal for the screw thread pairs (38,52) and the clutch member (50). The support member (60) and the sealing boot (72) are separately fixed to the casing (10).