I stumbled across this article on servicing brakes: SOP for Asbestos Brake Shoe Inspection and Servicing. After reading that, I have to question why asbestos brakes are still being manufactured. I'm not a tree hugging environmentalist, but since there are alternatives available, why not discontinue the use of asbestos?
asbestos is still a good brake lining material as it is heat resistane, reasonably long wearing, inexpensive to manufacture, and easy on the drums and rotors. you are right though in that asbestos is not the best material in regards to health issues, but with a little care you shouldnt have any problems. that said, asbestos linings are going away slowly but surely as new materials are replacing the old. the price on ceramic pads has come down since they were introduced, and they also are fairly easy on drums and rotors.
