[AT] de-greasing disc brakes

[Steve W.]

jtchall at nc.rr.com wrote:
> OK, I’m normally one of the first people to say don’t try this just
> buy some new ones. However, 4 disc brakes to fit my combine will run
> me $450 from Deere—they are not available aftermarket—it appears the
> 3300 was the ONLY thing to use this particular transmission. I’ve got
> plenty of pad left on them. I had a light leak/sweat on one side, the
> other is dry. Anyone ever had any luck degreasing a set? As stated
> they weren’t really greasy, but they just have a look and feel that
> to me suggests at some point they have gotten grease on them. I’m
> thinking about soaking them in Purple power for a couple days. I
> washed them off with Gunk yesterday.
> 
> When I put this combine back in service 3 years ago I  ground down
> the spots on the steel parts (larger and smaller diameters left as
> the discs wore them away) where the pads don’t run. Installed new
> balls and springs. This time I am going to try re-machining the 2
> steel pcs that actuate the brakes as I can tell they are not wearing
> flat. I’ll hand sand the discs on a ground plate or surface plate—yes
> I know they are probably asbestos so I’ll take reasonable
> precautions. I’m also going to replace the seals in the transmission.
> 
> 
> Any thoughts or suggestions?
> 
> John Hall _______________________________________________ AT mailing
> list http://www.antique-tractor.com/mailman/listinfo/at


Cheap toaster oven kitty litter (cheap unscented), foil tin large enough 
to hold discs, and some brake cleaner. Spray them down with the cleaner, 
let them dry a bit. A layer of litter, a disc, layer of litter repeat.
Toss the mess into the toaster oven (OUTSIDE IN THE OPEN AIR !!!) Set 
the oven for 400-450 degrees. Let them cook for an hour or so. The heat 
will boil the oil out of the material and the litter absorbs anything 
that doesn't cook off.

-- 
Steve W.