March 31, 2005 -- The Scam: The parts person claims they have a new "line" of friction material that will save you 20%! "Is this lining as good as the other lining I have been buying"
asks the customer. "We wouldn't be selling them if they weren't equal.", responds the salesman.
The Answer: In order to protect yourself and your fleet, demand brake linings approved by TMC's Performance Review Institute (PRI) Aftermarket Brake Lining Material Update. (see attached)
This service provided by the American Trucking Association lists manufacturers and brake linings that have been approved for use in the United States.Several parts distributors use
"private label" programs to conceal what brake lining material you are getting and claim they are the "same as" approved materials. If it was the same as approved, and safe, materials on
the market then they would be labeled as that product. Beware a salesman who says "the same as CM18" or "the same as AF230". If you want to be sure and to protect yourself from liability,
demand OEM or manufacturer edge codes, not companies own "private" label.
For any questions regarding frictions materials and proper applications please contact the Fleet Brake Location nearest to you (www.fleetbrake.com)
For more information on approved brake linings, go to the ATA website at http://www.truckline.com/index
Or in Canada to the HDDC website at:
http://www.hddc.on.ca/PRI_brake_linings.pdf