Should I add an additional brake pad return spring?

I'm finally getting around to replacing my brake pads and rotors after 181k miles on the stock brakes. Don't laugh. The stock pads were still going strong with 3 mm left! The rotors look barely used.

Anyway, on disassembly I noted each caliper had only one brake pad return spring on the bottom. Nothing on the top. So when I installed the new pads they sit at a slight angle because there is nothing pushing the tops back. I thought the tops might drag on the rotors causing uneven wear.

The new pads came with new springs so I moved the old springs to the top and installed the new springs on the bottom. When I squeeze the pads onto the rotor and release, the pads now spring back nicely and evenly.

What do you think of this minor mod? Good or bad?

 

Was there uneven wear on the pads that lasted 181,000 miles? Play around with springs all you want but I doubt you'll see any difference

 

There was no uneven wear... and that's a good point. But these new pads are not Toyota brand.

If I don't see any difference that would be a good thing! I was only wanting to confirm I wasn't doing anything potentially harmful. Sounds like I'm OK to proceed. Thanks.

 

I added the extra spring the first time I replaced my pads - since the new pads included them. In my mind the extra spring helps reduce some drag but who knows. In other Toyota/Lexus vehicles they have the two springs, so dont know why Tacomas only have the one.

 

Just my 2 cents, when I replaced the pads on my '17 OR there were two springs per caliper from the factory.
I certainly don't see where adding the "extra" spring to your calipers would have any negative effects.

 

So evidently Toyota began including two springs per caliper on the 3rd gens. That's good to know.

 

I added a second spring many years ago. I don't know if it does any good, but It certainly won't hurt.