Disc brake shims

[IDave]

So I'm swapping out the sticking calipers on my pickup's front end. I noticed that the old brake pads have shims between them and the calipers. The FSM doesn't show the shims, so I am wondering if someone just put them in to reduce rattle, extend the life of the pads, or to cause the sticking problem . Any help here? Do I need to put the shims in with new pads and calipers?

 

[Cube Dweller]

I usually swap them over. At least on the '86 mini, 91 runner, 97 cruiser, '01 Taco...

 

["N8"]

I usually throw em away, but never did really know if it was a good idea.

breaks have held up fine for years tho.

 

[IDave]

Well. That's confusing.

Are they supposed to be there or not? Why are they not in the FSM if they are standard?

 

[WristPin]

toyota uses two shims on each pad. so they do belong there.
the execption is, if the new pads already have a shim attached.

what brand of pads did you buy?

be sure to use brake caliper grease or equivelnt on the backs of the pad, and also on the edges. Its so it all moves freely. and helps prevent squeeks.

 

[IDave]

OK. New Toyota pads (no shims) and rebuilt Toyota calipers both from CDan. Both Haynes and FSM show the shims for the 84 on the 2x4 disc brakes, but not for the 4x4s. On the 2x4s they are called antisqueal shims. I'll certainly grease the pads.

 

[Bob_Garrett]

Toyota sells the shims separately. The pads should work fine without them, but they may squeal.

 

[IDave]

In that case, maybe I'll wait and see before I put them in.

 

["N8"]

mine dont squeal a bit.