Multi-disc brake system

A multi-disc brake system for automotive vehicles includes a plurality of discs slideably supported on a hub and a plurality of brake pad assemblies slideably supported on a bridge projecting from a stationary knuckle body. The pad assemblies are moved by a piston into selective braking engagement with the discs. An outer pad retainer is bolted to the bridge. A supplemental mechanical interlock feature couples the retainer releasably but securely to the bridge independently of the bolts. The pad retainer may alternatively be formed as one piece with the bridge and the bridge formed with a slideway having an access opening for installing and removing the pad assemblies for slideable movement therealong. The discs may further be supported on the hub by a supplemental support which enables sliding movement of the discs along the hub but limits the travel beyond at least one end of the hub so that discs remain on the hub independently of any support provided by the interleaved brake pad assemblies.