Brake Service Frequently Asked Questions| Goodson Tools & Supplies

How should I measure my brake lathe tips to be sure I’m getting the correct replacements?
Answer: There are 3 measurements you need to look at.
A–The height of the tip from the point to the flat.
B–The thickness of the tip.
C-The size of the hole (if it has one). See the illustrations below.

As an added reference, we picture all of our brake lathe cutting tips at actual size in our printed catalog. Unfortunately we are unable to do that online because of the way internet pages are rendered, but we do have a chart that you can download and print to use as a reference. Be sure to follow the printing instructions on the chart so that all tips reproduce accurately.
What’s the difference between your three grades of brake tips?
Goodson offers three grades of brake lathe cutting tips. Solid Carbide, Honed-Edge Carbide and Titanium Coated Carbide.
Solid Carbide are our Standard Grade Tips. They are parallel ground for resurfacing cast iron drums and rotors.
Honed-Edge Carbide Tips are parallel and peripheral ground. The honed edges deliver a better finish on cast iron and composite rotors. We recommend using the Honed-Edge Carbide tips if you’re going to be machining a rotor with some rust on the surface. Keep in mind, though, that rust is hard on any type of tip. The Honed-edge tips will not chip like titanium will on rust.
Titanium Coated Carbide Tips are Goodson’s premium brake lathe cutting tip. These carbide tips are parallel and peripheral ground for ultimate performance and finish on cast iron and composite rotors. The titanium coating is applied to a carbide substrate. It is specifically developed for cutting, turning and boring most materials at moderate to low speeds. Its unique mechanical and thermal shock resistant properties make it ideal for cutting today’s drums and rotors while providing longer life for more cuts per tip.
Why should I use a silencer band and how do I know which one to use?
A silencer band will absorb vibration that creates chatter while cutting. We offer several styles of silencer bands, but the most common is the rubber type with lead weights spaced evenly throughout the band. For solid-type rotors, we also have a chain silencer that works very well.
I’m not finding what I need in your catalog, can I still order something special from Goodson?
Our catalog features only those items that we stock in our service centers. We have many contacts throughout the industry and have made special arrangements with many of them to offer their products on an as-needed basis. So, yes, if you need something that you don’t see in our catalog, don’t hesitate to call 1-800-533-8010 and talk to one of our customer service representatives about placing a special order.
You offer a lot of brake lathe adaptors and mounting systems, how do I pick which one’s for me?
It used to be that standard centering cones and bell clamps worked for most vehicles but with today’s smaller cars and weight savings, manufacturers have developed composite (hubless) rotors. These require a different type of adaptor to support them when machining. The Quick Chuck system is the most popular and easiest to use of the hubless adaptor systems but they all work equally well. As to which one to choose, it boils down to personal preference.
I’m looking for a used brake lathe. Does Goodson sell them? If not, who should I talk to?
Goodson sells replacement parts, tools and supplies for brake service, not the actual brake lathes. We do, however, have many contacts with used equipment sales representatives around the country so we can make referrals based on your location and the type of brake lathe you’re looking for. For more information, contact Goodson at 1-800-533-8010 or e-mail us with the details.
What’s so great about these round tips you sell?
The short answer is that they last longer and yield a better finish than traditional triangular tips.
Longer Lasting. With traditional triangular tips, you have 3 or 6 cutting edges, depending on the rake of the tip. Round tips have 10 to 20 cutting edges depending on the depth of the cut.

10 cutting edges
.030″ deep cut
on the rotor

13 cutting edges
.020″ deep cut
on the rotor

20 cutting edges
.010″ deep cut
on the rotor
What’s the difference between a negative rake and positive rake and why’s it so important?
Negative Rake: If the cutter face is perpendicular to the surface to be cut (see illustration), the tool has negative rake. 6 cutting tips per insert. A negative rake insert is more durable than a positive rake insert. This will provide longer insert life when cutting items of uneven and inconsistent hardness such as used drums and rotors.
Positive Rake: If the cutter face is inclined upward (see illustration), the tool has positive rake. 3 cutting tips per insert due to geometry. Can be used to reduce chatter on solid (non-vented) rotors.
I have a persistent squeal in the brakes on my vehicle. The rotors have been turned and I’ve done everything else I can think of. What would you suggest?
A lot of things can cause brake squeal; from the type of brake pads to the surface finish on the rotor to improper lubricant on the slide, to a lack of anti-chatter on the back of the brake pads, to worn pads. Assuming the proper brake pads are installed and rotor finish is correct, apply a silencer spray for direct application to both sides of the rotor. This fills small imperfections in the surface that can cause vibration. Any type of vibration can cause a squeal. Be sure to follow the directions on the can of silencer spray in order for it to work properly.

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