GMC Safari 1985-1994 Brakes Specifications
Explore the detailed brake specifications for the 1985-1994 GMC Safari. This guide covers all brake system components, including rotors, drums, pads, and calipers, ensuring accurate maintenance and repair for optimal performance and safety.
Overview Specifications
This document provides detailed specifications and technical information about the braking system of the 1985-1994 GMC Safari. It is designed to assist owners, mechanics, and enthusiasts in understanding the brake components, maintenance requirements, and performance characteristics. Use this guide to navigate through sections, search for specific details, and reference key specifications for quick access.
How to Use
Use the search functionality to find specific terms or components related to the braking system. Enter keywords like 'brake pads,' 'rotors,' or 'hydraulic system' to locate relevant information quickly.
Navigate through the document by scrolling through sections or using the table of contents. Each section is organized by major topics, with subsections providing detailed technical points for easy reference.
Key Specifications
Brake Pad Thickness (New)
10-12 mm
Rotor Diameter (Front)
11-12 inches
Brake Fluid Type
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Stopping Distance (60-0 mph)
140-160 feet
Fluid Flush Interval
Every 2 years
Available Specifications
Brake System Components
This section covers the primary components of the GMC Safari's braking system, including the brake pads, rotors, calipers, and hydraulic system. Learn about their functions, materials, and maintenance requirements.
Brake System Components
This section covers the primary components of the GMC Safari's braking system, including the brake pads, rotors, calipers, and hydraulic system. Learn about their functions, materials, and maintenance requirements.
Brake Pads
- Material: Semi-metallic or ceramic
- Thickness: 10-12 mm (new)
- Replacement Interval: Every 30,000-50,000 miles
- Compatibility: Front and rear specific
- Heat Resistance: Up to 600°F
- Wear Indicators: Audible squeal when worn
Rotors
- Material: Cast iron
- Diameter: 11-12 inches (front), 10-11 inches (rear)
- Thickness: 20-22 mm (new)
- Minimum Thickness: 18 mm (after machining)
- Ventilation: Front rotors are ventilated
- Replacement Interval: Check every 30,000 miles
Hydraulic System
- Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4
- Master Cylinder: Dual-circuit design
- Brake Lines: Steel and rubber components
- Bleeding Interval: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
- Pressure: 1,000-1,200 psi
- ABS: Not available on 1985-1994 models
Brake Performance
This section provides insights into the braking performance of the GMC Safari, including stopping distances, pedal feel, and factors affecting efficiency. Understand how the system performs under various conditions.
Brake Performance
This section provides insights into the braking performance of the GMC Safari, including stopping distances, pedal feel, and factors affecting efficiency. Understand how the system performs under various conditions.
Stopping Distance
- 60-0 mph: 140-160 feet
- Wet Conditions: 160-180 feet
- Load Impact: Increased distance with heavy loads
- Tire Influence: Proper inflation critical for optimal performance
- Brake Fade: Minimal under normal conditions
- Emergency Braking: Firm pedal response
Pedal Feel
- Travel: 1-2 inches before engagement
- Firmness: Moderate, with slight sponginess
- Feedback: Direct and responsive
- Adjustment: Self-adjusting rear brakes
- Maintenance: Regular fluid checks ensure consistency
- Wear Impact: Increased travel as pads wear
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Learn about routine maintenance tasks and common issues with the GMC Safari's braking system. This section includes tips for inspection, repair, and troubleshooting.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Learn about routine maintenance tasks and common issues with the GMC Safari's braking system. This section includes tips for inspection, repair, and troubleshooting.
Routine Maintenance
- Inspect brake pads every 10,000 miles
- Check rotor thickness during pad replacement
- Flush brake fluid every 2 years
- Lubricate caliper slides annually
- Inspect brake lines for leaks or corrosion
- Test parking brake functionality
Common Issues
- Squeaking or grinding noises
- Pulsating brake pedal
- Soft or spongy pedal
- Uneven pad wear
- Fluid leaks
- ABS-like symptoms (if applicable)
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Brakes Specifications
Overview
- Type
- Hydraulic Disc (Front), Drum (Rear)
- Configuration
- Dual-circuit, split diagonally
- Platform
- GMC Safari 1985-1994
- Material
- Cast Iron (Rotors), Steel (Drums)
- Location
- Front and Rear Axles
Dimensions
- Front Rotor Diameter
- 11.0 inches (279.4 mm)
- Front Rotor Thickness
- 1.1 inches (28 mm)
- Rear Drum Diameter
- 9.5 inches (241.3 mm)
- Rear Drum Width
- 2.0 inches (50.8 mm)
- Brake Pad Thickness
- 0.5 inches (12.7 mm)
- Brake Shoe Thickness
- 0.25 inches (6.35 mm)
- Master Cylinder Bore
- 1.0 inches (25.4 mm)
Materials
- Rotors
- Cast Iron with anti-corrosion coating
- Drums
- High-carbon steel
- Brake Pads
- Semi-metallic friction material
- Brake Shoes
- Organic friction material
- Brake Lines
- Steel braided with rubber coating
Features
- Braking System
-
- Dual-circuit hydraulic system
- Proportioning valve for rear brakes
- Self-adjusting rear drum brakes
- Front disc brakes with ventilated rotors
- Performance
-
- ABS not available (standard)
- High thermal capacity rotors
- Dust shields for front rotors
- Mechanical parking brake
- Durability
-
- Corrosion-resistant rotors
- Reinforced brake lines
- Heat-treated drums
- Long-lasting friction materials
- Maintenance
-
- Easy-access calipers
- Self-adjusting rear brakes
- Replaceable wear indicators
- Standardized bolt patterns
Safety Features
- System Redundancy
-
- Dual-circuit hydraulic system
- Independent front and rear circuits
- Emergency Braking
-
- Mechanical parking brake
- Proportioning valve for stability
- Wear Monitoring
-
- Audible wear indicators
- Visual inspection points
Comfort Features
- Noise Reduction
-
- Anti-squeal shims on pads
- Dampened brake shoes
- Pedal Feel
-
- Optimized master cylinder
- Balanced hydraulic pressure
- Vibration Control
-
- Vented front rotors
- Balanced drum assemblies
Accessories
- Upgrades
-
- Performance brake pads
- Slotted rotors
- Stainless steel brake lines
- Tools
-
- Brake caliper tool
- Drum brake spring tool
- Brake bleeder kit
- Maintenance Kits
-
- Brake pad replacement kit
- Brake shoe replacement kit
- Brake fluid flush kit
Maintenance
- Service interval
- Every 12,000 miles or 12 months
- Service Items
-
- Inspect brake pads and shoes
- Check brake fluid level
- Inspect rotors and drums for wear
- Test parking brake function
- Bleed brake system if necessary
- Maintenance Notes
- Replace brake fluid every 2 years or 24,000 miles
Warranty
- Brake Pads
- Miles: 24,000Years: 2Coverage: Material defects
- Rotors
- Miles: 50,000Years: 5Coverage: Warpage or cracking
- Drums
- Miles: 50,000Years: 5Coverage: Cracking or excessive wear
- Master Cylinder
- Miles: 60,000Years: 5Coverage: Leaks or failure
Production Details
- Manufacturer
- General Motors
- Manufacturing Process
-
- Casting for rotors and drums
- CNC machining for precision
- Heat treatment for durability
- Quality Control
- inspection: 100% rotor and drum inspectionTesting: Hydraulic pressure testingCertification: Meets FMVSS 135 standards
- Sustainability Practices
-
- Recycled materials in friction components
- Eco-friendly brake fluid options
- Energy-efficient manufacturing
- Production Metrics
- Annual Output: 500,000 unitsDefect Rate: 0.1%Lead Time: 4 weeks
Service Information for brakes Service
Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component
- Inspect brake pads and shoes
- Check brake fluid level
- Inspect rotors and drums for wear
- Test parking brake function
- Bleed brake system if necessary
Ensure proper torque on all bolts during inspection
- Replace brake pads if worn
- Replace brake shoes if worn
- Inspect brake lines for leaks
- Check master cylinder function
- Flush and replace brake fluid
Use DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid only
- Replace rotors if below minimum thickness
- Replace drums if worn or damaged
- Inspect and replace brake hardware
- Check proportioning valve function
- Perform full system pressure test
Critical to replace rotors and drums in pairs
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 Are brake pads for the 1985-1994 GMC Safari compatible with other models?
Are brake pads for the 1985-1994 GMC Safari compatible with other models?
Brake pads for the 1985-1994 GMC Safari are specifically designed for this model and may not be compatible with other vehicles. Always verify part numbers and specifications before purchasing. Cross-referencing with OEM or aftermarket catalogs is recommended to ensure proper fitment and performance.
Q2 What is the recommended maintenance schedule for GMC Safari brakes?
What is the recommended maintenance schedule for GMC Safari brakes?
Inspect brake pads and rotors every 12,000 miles or annually. Replace brake pads when thickness is below 3mm. Rotors should be resurfaced or replaced if worn or warped. Brake fluid should be flushed every 30,000 miles or as specified in the owner's manual to maintain optimal braking performance.
Q3 How do I replace the brake pads on a 1985-1994 GMC Safari?
How do I replace the brake pads on a 1985-1994 GMC Safari?
1. Lift the vehicle and remove the wheels. 2. Remove the caliper bolts and detach the caliper. 3. Take out the old brake pads. 4. Compress the caliper piston using a C-clamp. 5. Install new pads and reattach the caliper. 6. Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle. Test brakes before driving.
Q4 What should I do if my GMC Safari brakes are squeaking?
What should I do if my GMC Safari brakes are squeaking?
Squeaking brakes may indicate worn pads, dirty components, or lack of lubrication. Inspect pads for wear and replace if necessary. Clean the brake assembly and apply brake lubricant to contact points. If the issue persists, check for rotor damage or uneven wear and resurface or replace as needed.
Q5 How can I improve the braking performance of my GMC Safari?
How can I improve the braking performance of my GMC Safari?
Upgrade to high-performance brake pads and rotors for better heat dissipation and stopping power. Ensure proper brake fluid levels and use DOT 4 fluid for improved performance. Regularly inspect and maintain the braking system, including calipers and brake lines, to ensure optimal functionality.
Factory Service Resources
Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.
1985-1994 GMC Safari Service Manual
Coming SoonComprehensive guide covering brake system maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting for the GMC Safari.
Brake System Technical Bulletin for GMC Safari
Coming SoonTechnical service bulletin addressing common brake system issues and recommended solutions.
GMC Safari Brake Parts Catalog
Coming SoonCatalog listing OEM and aftermarket brake components for the 1985-1994 GMC Safari.
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Technical Information
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