Dodge Nitro. Manual - part 363

BRAKE DRUM IN HAT ROTOR 

The maximum allowable diameter of the drum braking surface is indicated on the drum outer edge. Always 
replace the drum if machining would cause drum diameter to exceed the size limit indicated on the drum in hat. 

BRAKE DRUM RUNOUT 

Measure drum diameter and runout with an accurate gauge. The most accurate method of measurement involves 
mounting the drum in a brake lathe and checking variation and runout with a dial indicator. 

Machine the drum if runout or variation exceed values. Replace the drum in hat rotor if machining causes the 
drum in hat rotor to exceed the maximum allowable diameter. 

STANDARD PROCEDURE 

DISC BRAKE ROTOR MACHINING 

The disc brake rotor can be machined if scored or worn. The on-vehicle lathe must machine both sides of the 
rotor simultaneously with dual cutter heads. The rotor mounting surface must be clean before placing on the on-
vehicle lathe. Equipment capable of machining only one side at a time may produce a tapered rotor. This type 
of rotor machining is not recommended . 

BRAKE DRUM IN HAT ROTOR MACHINING 

The brake drum in hat rotor can be machined on a drum lathe when necessary. Initial machining cuts should be 
limited to 0.12 - 0.20 mm (0.005 - 0.008 in.) at a time as heavier feed rates can produce taper and surface 
variation. Final finish cuts of 0.025 to 0.038 mm (0.001 to 0.0015 in.) are recommended and will generally 
provide the best surface finish. 

Be sure the drum in hat rotor is securely mounted in the lathe before machining operations. A damper strap 
should always be used around the drum to reduce vibration and avoid chatter marks. 

The maximum allowable diameter of the drum braking surface is stamped or cast into the drum in hat rotor. 

NOTE:

A hub mounted on-vehicle lathe is highly recommended. This type of lathe trues 
the rotor to the vehicles hub/bearing.

NOTE:

Proper wheel torque is also critical to help prevent any warping of the disc 
brake rotor.

CAUTION: Brake rotors that do not meet minimum thickness specifications before or 

after machining must be replaced.

CAUTION: Replace the drum in hat rotor if machining will cause the drum to exceed 

the maximum allowable diameter.

 

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T 

2007 BRAKES Base - Service Information - Nitro

  

REMOVAL 

DISC BRAKE ROTOR-FRONT 

Fig. 39: Front Disc Brake Rotor 
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC 

1. Raise and support the vehicle.  

2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. 

3. Remove the caliper adapter (2). See REMOVAL.  

4. Remove the disc brake rotor (3).  

DISC BRAKE ROTOR-REAR 

CAUTION: Never allow the disc brake caliper to hang from the brake hose. 

Damage to the brake hose will result. Provide a suitable support to 
hang the caliper securely.

 

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T 

2007 BRAKES Base - Service Information - Nitro

  

Fig. 40: Rear Disc Brake Rotor 
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC 

1. Raise and support the vehicle  

2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly.  

3. Remove the disc brake caliper adapter (2) and pads (3), see REMOVAL.  

4. Remove the retaining clips and rotor assembly (1).  

INSTALLATION 

DISC BRAKE ROTOR-FRONT 

Fig. 41: Front Disc Brake Rotor 
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC 

1. Install the disc brake rotor (3) to the hub.  

2. Install the caliper mounting adapter (2). See INSTALLATION. 

 

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T 

2007 BRAKES Base - Service Information - Nitro

  

3. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE .  

DISC BRAKE ROTOR-REAR 

Fig. 42: Rear Disc Brake Rotor 
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC 

1. Install the rotor (1) to the axle shaft.  

2. Install the disc brake caliper adapter (2) and pads (3), see INSTALLATION.  

3. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE .  

4. Lower the vehicle.  

PEDAL 

DESCRIPTION 

BRAKE PEDAL 

 

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T 

2007 BRAKES Base - Service Information - Nitro