LEMON Manuals: Even more car manuals for everyone
Home >> Chevrolet >> 2001 >> Cavalier LS, 2.2 4 >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 246 (Disc Brake System) >> Diagnostic Information and Procedures >> Disc Brake Mounting and Hardware Inspection

Disc Brake Mounting and Hardware Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Sunfire and 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION: Refer to Brake Dust Caution in Cautions and Notices.
CAUTION: Refer to Brake Fluid Irritant Caution in Cautions and Notices.
  1. Inspect the fluid level in the brake master cylinder reservoir.
  2. If the brake fluid level is midway between the maximum-full point and the minimum allowable level, no brake fluid needs to be removed from the reservoir before proceeding.
  3. If the brake fluid level is higher than midway between the maximum-full point and the minimum allowable level, remove brake fluid to the midway point before proceeding.
  4. Install a large C-clamp, over the body of the brake caliper with the C-clamp ends against the rear of the caliper body and against the outer brake pad.
    Fig 1: Compressing Brake Caliper Piston
    GM142234Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  5. Tighten the C-clamp until the caliper piston is compressed into the caliper bore leaving a gap of approximately 10 mm (0.38 in) between the disc brake pads and the brake rotor.
  6. Remove the C-clamp from the caliper.
  7. Grasp the brake caliper and attempt to move the brake caliper vertically. The brake caliper should not exhibit excessive looseness.
  8. Grasp the brake caliper and move the brake caliper inboard and outboard. The brake caliper should slide smoothly with minimal force.
  9. Inspect the disc brake pad retainers.
    Fig 2: View Of Disc Brake Pads
    GM927124Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  10. Inspect the disc brake pad mounting hardware and the disc brake pads for the following:
    • Bent mounting tabs
    • Excessive corrosion
    • Looseness at the steering knuckle
    • Looseness at the disc brake pads
    • Missing mounting hardware
  11. If any of the conditions listed are found, the disc brake pads require replacement.
  12. Ensure the disc brake pads are held firmly in place on the steering knuckle, yet slide easily on the knuckle without binding.
  13. Inspect the brake caliper bolts (1) by gently pulling the caliper outward, then push the caliper inward, and observe for the following:
    • Bent or damaged brake caliper bolts (1)
    • Bent or damaged brake caliper assembly
    • Restricted caliper sliding movement
    • Corrosion
    • Split or torn bushings (2)
    • Missing bushings
    • Looseness in the brake caliper assembly
    • Seized caliper bolts
    Fig 3: View Of Brake Caliper Bolts
    GM142246Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  14. If any of the conditions listed are found, the brake caliper mounting hardware requires replacement.
scientia non olet · About LEMON Manuals