for the first time i would like to replace my own brake pads... my '87 needs pads up front so instead of taking it somewhere i would rather do it myself. so i need detailed direction and steps for replacing my pads... please help

 

Jack up the front end. Pick a wheel and take it off. There are 2 bolts holding the caliper to the bracket, they have 3/8" allen heads...take them out. Swing the caliper off the rotor. Remove pads. Using a 6" C-clamp (or caliper piston press if you wanna buy one) press the piston back into the caliper bore. Be careful to keep it straight. Insert new pads, place caliper on rotor, bolt caliper down, replace wheel. Repeat on other side. When you're done, be sure to pump the brakes a couple times before you try to drive the car.

If your brakes vibrate or grind then you need to take the rotors and have them turned or get new ones. Otherwise the pads won't last long.

 

I need to get mine replaced... maybe I'll try it myself

 

thanks TheGreatJ
i just wanted to make sure i know what i'm doing b/c i never worked on my own brakes before...

but what if i don't have a C-clamp? will i need one or could i use something else??