I am replacing my Hawk pads with new Hawk pads (1st time). When removing the old ones I noticed that there are 3 shims on the pads. The workshop manual shows only two inner and two outer shims (front brakes) I have not tried to install them yet, because since I was doing the brakes anyway, I thought I'd paint the calipers. Do I need the 3 shims? Or should I just test fit it and see what happens? Have any of you come across this situation? Thanks for any help you can give.

 

My Axxis pads have a flexible plastic type shim attached to them, so technically I'll be using 3.

 

i wouldn't use the shims that come wit aftermarket pads because they tend to fall off just use the oem shims that's all

 

Only use one. Putting a big stack o' shims in there could lead to a spongy pedal... especially if you use that RTV no-squeal stuff liberally between each (don't ask how I know :-). The one you should use is the asymmetrical one that Mazda gave you.

Take care,
Shad