brake lathe cutting bit setup

[jesselyons2002]

Hi recently got hire at a shop. Been working there for some time now. But have a question about setup the cutting bits of the brake lathe. What is the right way to do it. I usually cut the rotors how ever the last person set it up (Also tried some other setups). But sometimes my rotors don't look like they come out right. Thank you for your help. Greatly appreciated

 

[WhiffySpark]

Experience. I don’t pay attention to the numbers but I cut off the least amount I can. I prefer round bits as well

 

[Milton Shaw]

Are you using a silencing band on the rotor when you turn them. There are several different styles depending on vented or non vented rotors. There are also the hockey puck kind that have to be reset for every rotor. Other than that the speed of cutting is important and will effect the surface of the rotor. A non directional sander to finish off the rotor also improves the finish and makes them break in easier. Also washing the rotor after turning it removes the fine metal bits that will contaminate the pads unless washed off.

 

[kkroger]

Rotors can have hard spots in them from use, as well as other things most NEW rotors don't have enough meat on them to turn anyway, Was always taught to take 3 passes max two fast cuts and one slow cut truing the surface while removing the least amount of material possible, of course it all depends on how much material you can really remove, Haven't turned a rotor in 20 years now, and Havent even HAD one turned.