Heres the deal, I got a rear disc swap, but it came disassmbled. I have out my hynes manual and the picture gives me the impression that the capilers's pads actually rest on the brakes... seems like that would use up the brakes fast. Is this correct? probably not, I just want to know.

Nick

 

the pads on disk brakes will always be in contact with the disk
pads do not "retract" they just clamp and when the caliper relases the pressure they just sit wherever the rotor pushes them to

hence the rubbing sound when you spin you wheel when your car is off of the ground

it is normal and it only causes minimal wear that you would never notice unless your caliper is not releasing pressure like it should