Disc thickness variation (DTV) is where the rotor or disc varies in thickness, as indicated in the diagram, around the rotor.

No matter what make or model of car you are repairing, Bendix is most likely to have the disc brake pad to suit. First check your Bendix Disc Pad Data Book. If the make and model are not listed, call our Brake Advice Centre on 1800 819 666 (8am-5pm Mon to Fri).Problem: What is DTV?

Several different pads do fit various models. To fit most Commodores, the pad must have a 6mm minimum thickness backing plate, or a 5mm back plate which has a 1mm raised ear (joggle) on each end.Problem: Which pad fits in the caliper?

Brake pads frequently get blamed for this. The real culprit though is incorrectly finished discs. After machining, always clean off the disc surfaces with 240 grit emery. Then clean up using a non oil based solvent. Repeat the process after fitting. A thorough wipe down will remove graphite and grease.Problem: Which pad for Commodores.

Disc thickness variation is the cause of this problem. Usually it is caused by the disc being out of alignment when originally fitted. Machine the discs. If they are thinner than the manufacturer's minimum thickness specification, replace the discs.Problem: Poor braking performance after disc machining

The pads are simply getting too hot. The most common causes are driver abuse or faulty calipers. Faulty calipers may cause the front or rear brakes to 'hang on', building up heat in the friction material. Get the driver to change his driving habits. Overhaul the braking system.Problem: Steering vibration under light braking.

Different vehicle loads, driving styles and road conditions demand different friction material characteristics. A car towing a caravan or tandem trailer may require Bendix Heavy Duty The same car used for normal traffic and driving conditions would be perfectly happy with General CT or Advance. If driven hard, the car may require Ultimate.Problem: Smoke and odour.

Uneven pad wear is often a caliper problem, caused by faulty seals, sticking or bent slide pins. Overhaul the calipers on that axle.Problem: Right material for the job.

First, check the car's odometer reading to see if the calipers have ever been overhauled. Driver abuse can also cause rapid wear. When the rear brakes are not doing their share of braking, rapid wear of the front brakes will result. Check to see if the booster/master cylinder/proportioning valve are out of adjustment. Calipers must be overhauled at 60,000km intervals. Find out which friction material has been fitted as it may be wrong for the application. Overhaul if necessary.Problem : Uneven pad wear

Squeal is caused by vibration of any component under braking. Look beyond the braking system for worn suspension components. Use your to check if the right pads have been fitted to the vehicle. Check that the original anti-squeal shims have been fitted to the replacement pads. The calipers may require a complete overhaul.Problem: Rapid pad wear.