Brake Pad Components RFQ Package: Steel Backs, Hardware Kits, Shims and Molds

Why a component RFQ package is better than a single model number

Brake pad component sourcing often starts with a familiar OE, WVA, FMSI, GDB or FDB number. That number is useful, but it may not fully describe the steel backing plate version, shim construction, truck and bus hardware kit contents or tooling requirement. A clearer RFQ package gives the supplier enough information to check production resources, quote the correct item and advise whether custom development is needed.

Fuxin Brake, the export brand of Hangzhou Fuxin Auto Parts Co., Ltd., supports brake pad component projects with factory-based production resources and practical custom development capability. The goal is not to overstate capacity, but to help buyers prepare the right information before sample confirmation or bulk purchasing.

Core information to include in every RFQ

1. Steel backing plates / steel backs

For brake pad manufacturers, steel backing plates must be checked against the production pad shape and press process. Important RFQ points include overall profile, ear position, hole layout, slots, sensor-related features, material requirement, thickness, surface preparation and packing method.

• Send a drawing or clear sample photos when the reference is uncommon or regional.
• State whether you need existing model supply or a new backing plate stamping die.
• Confirm if the steel back is for passenger car, light commercial, truck, bus or trailer applications.
• Avoid relying on one catalog number if the market has multiple pad versions under similar references.

2. Truck and bus hardware kits

Commercial vehicle brake pad hardware kits can include retaining springs, clips, pins, guide plates, bolts, anti-rattle pieces and related fitting parts. Small changes in caliper version or pad design can change the kit content, so photos and sample details are especially valuable.

Distributors should describe whether kits will be sold as aftermarket repair kits, packed with pad sets or supplied in bulk for local assembly. Brake pad factories should confirm whether hardware must match a specific caliper, pad reference or customer packing standard.

3. Brake pad shims

Brake pad shims are usually checked together with the backing plate because hole position, edge clearance and left/right orientation affect fitment. The RFQ should identify whether the buyer needs bare steel shims, rubber-coated shims, multi-layer shims, adhesive-backed shims or a specific shim shape made from sample or drawing.

• Provide shim photos from both sides, especially when adhesive or rubber layers are involved.
• Confirm thickness, coating structure and whether left/right pieces are different.
• For new model development, share the matching backing plate drawing or sample if available.

4. Brake pad molds and backing plate dies

Tooling should be discussed only after the product target is clear. Brake pad molds support friction material pressing, while backing plate dies support steel back stamping. Before opening a tool, buyers should provide a confirmed drawing, physical sample or reliable reference, plus expected volume and schedule.

For suitable projects, Fuxin Brake can review whether existing component resources are available, whether a modified development route is practical or whether new tooling is more appropriate. This helps buyers avoid unnecessary tool cost while still allowing new model expansion when the market demand is clear.

Recommended RFQ email format

• Subject: RFQ for brake pad components - model list attached.
• Company and market: distributor, brake pad factory or trading company; target country or region.
• Products required: steel backing plates, hardware kits, shims, molds or backing plate dies.
• Model data: OE / WVA / FMSI / GDB / FDB references, drawings, photos or samples.
• Commercial details: estimated quantity, packing, label requirement, target delivery plan and shipment terms.