A replaceable wear liner fitted inside a guide shoe housing that contacts the guide rail and absorbs friction and vibration.
Full Definition
The elevator guide insert (guide shoe liner or guide shoe pad) is the sacrificial wear element inside the guide shoe body that makes direct sliding or rolling contact with the guide rail flange. Inserts are typically fabricated from oil-impregnated nylon, UHMW polyethylene, graphite-filled PTFE, or sintered bronze depending on application. They are dimensioned to provide a specific clearance (typically 0.1–0.5 mm per side) relative to the rail flange. Worn inserts cause increased clearance, allowing car sway and vibration that reduces ride quality and accelerates rail and cabin wear. Replacement is performed by removing the guide shoe from the car sling bracket and pressing out the worn liner. Insert grade and grade must match the rail surface finish and lubrication system.
