What voltage do I need to operate a brake lathe?
The brake lathes sold at Integrated Marketing operate using single phase (220V) power.
What is a brake lathe?
A brake lathe is an efficient tool for curing noise and vibration problems, often prolonging
the life of brake systems. Basically, brake lathes correct thickness variations on the rotor.
Why skim your discs?
- Skimming will return your brakes to ex-factory condition
- The process matches the disc to the hub.
When should brake discs be resurfaced?
- There is brake vibration or judder
- Discs are corroded or rusty
- Brake pads are changed but new discs are not necessary
- Brakes feel spongy
What are the advantages of on car disc skimming?
- Performs like brand new
- Minimizes down time
- Saving money
- Minimal disassembly
How does a off-car skimmer work?
For an Off-car brake lathe/bench lathe the rotor is removed from the car and mounted to the lathe.
How does an on-car skimmer work?
An On-car brake lathe often does a reliable job, because it’s installed in the same position as the brake calliper, basically mimicking the movement of the wheel.
Does brake disc skimming make discs too thin?
If a set of discs was too thin in the first place they should be replaced. The machining process removes only the tiniest slice.
Can you skim your discs on the car?
Yes! You can of course skim discs kept on the car without removing them, using an on-car lathe. Why do you want to spend time removing the disc and then refitting it?
Does a brake skimming machine need to be maintained?
Yes! Any machine needs maintenance. Proper maintenance of you brake lathe, will extend the life of your equipment. A well-maintained lathe will ensure an accurate cut and the correct surface finish on each rotor that you machine.
What’s the difference between on-car and off-car brake lathes?
On-car lathes mount directly to the vehicle’s hub, allowing you to skim the disc in perfect alignment with the hub. This corrects runout caused by hub/disc misalignment.
Off-car (bench) lathes require removal of the disc and allow for rotor resurfacing off the vehicle. These machines are preferred in high-volume workshops due to their speed and repeatability.
How long does it take to skim a disc?
Depending on the machine and the disc condition, on-car skimming usually takes 30–60 minutes per axle, while off-car lathes can resurface a rotor in as little as 10–15 minutes. Time may vary based on technician experience and rotor damage.
What vehicles can be serviced with a brake lathe?
Brake lathes are compatible with a wide range of vehicles including:
Passenger cars
Light commercial vehicles
SUVs and bakkies
Some industrial lathes can also service trucks and buses with the correct adapters.
Do I need training to operate a brake lathe?
Yes. While brake lathes are straightforward to use, operator training is highly recommended to ensure:
Correct mounting
Safe operation
Proper cut quality
Avoidance of disc damage
Integrated Marketing can assist with operator guidance or link you to training material.
Can skimming fix brake noise?
Yes. Many brake noise issues are caused by surface irregularities or uneven deposits on the disc. Skimming removes these imperfections, helping to eliminate squeaks, squeals, and vibrations.
Is disc skimming always better than disc replacement?
Not always. Discs that are below minimum thickness, severely warped, or cracked must be replaced. However, when possible, skimming is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative.
How do I know if my discs are too thin to skim?
Every brake disc has a minimum thickness stamped on its surface. A micrometer or digital caliper should be used to measure disc thickness before skimming. If it’s below spec, replacement is required.