Front Brake Pads: Installation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Chevrolet Corvette. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Inspect the caliper slide boots for cuts, tears, or deterioration. If damaged, replace the slides and the boots.
- Install large "C" clamp over the body of the brake caliper with the "C" clamp ends against the rear of the caliper body and against an old inboard brake pad or a wood block installed against the caliper pistons. See Fig 1.
- Tighten the "C" clamp evenly until the caliper pistons are compressed completely into the caliper bores.
- Remove the "C" clamp and the old brake pad or wood block from the caliper.
- Install the brake pad retainers to the caliper bracket.
- Install the brake pads to the caliper bracket. The brake pad wear sensor, mounted on the inboard brake pad, must be positioned so that it is in the trailing position during forward rotation of the brake rotor.
- Pivot the brake caliper upward, over the brake pads and into the caliper bracket.
- Install the upper brake caliper guide pin bolt and tighten to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
- Remove 2 lug nuts securing rotor. Install the tire and wheel assembly and tighten wheel lug nuts to specification.
- Lower the vehicle.
- With the engine OFF, gradually apply the brake pedal to approximately 2/3 of its travel distance.
- Slowly release the brake pedal.
- Wait 15 seconds, then repeat steps 11- 12 until a firm brake pedal apply is obtained. This will properly seat the brake caliper pistons and brake pads.
- Fill the brake master cylinder reservoir to the proper level.
- Burnish the brake pads and rotors. While test driving vehicle, perform 20 stops from 30 MPH using medium to firm pedal pressure. DO NOT allow the brakes to lock. Ensure brakes do not overheat. Allow sufficient cooling periods between stops in order to properly burnish the brake pads and rotors.