3rd Gen / L98 Engine Tech 1982 - 1992 Engine Related

How long to change front brake pads?

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Old Jan 21, 2004 | 05:24 PM
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firebirdjosh's Avatar
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How long to change front brake pads?

If the tires are off, how long to do it? And what specific tools do I need. Its freezing outside and I don't want to be screwing around. I already got horrible frostbite when my car got a flat a week ago. Thanks guys.
Old Jan 21, 2004 | 06:08 PM
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Should take just a few minutes,
It's 2 allen bolts,
Old Jan 21, 2004 | 06:17 PM
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Yep, 2 allen bolts, either 3/8" or 5/16" (can't remember offhand.) You'll also need a big pair of channellocks or a 6" or larger C-clamp to squeeze the caliper piston back into the bore. You can probably get it done in 15 minutes if the wheels are already off.
Old Jan 21, 2004 | 06:40 PM
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make sure you dont let the calipers hang :P i used a box to set them on.
Old Jan 21, 2004 | 06:43 PM
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THanks guys. My brother has done this a million times but its too cold to ask him to do it. I am excited, new rims, lugs, tires, balancing, alignment and brakes. Hopefully it will feel even better!
Old Jan 21, 2004 | 06:44 PM
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Originally posted by Z28James
make sure you dont let the calipers hang :P i used a box to set them on.
I use small bungee cords to hold mine up.
Old Jan 21, 2004 | 06:57 PM
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I use a jack stand.
Old Jan 22, 2004 | 05:19 AM
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Bend a wire hanger and use that. As long as they don't hang by the hose. Do check the hose for cracks.
Old Jan 22, 2004 | 06:48 AM
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Might not be a bad idea to replace those rubber hoses anyways. New hoses are only about $12 and $13 dollars a side, but if you get them know that they are different for each side. You WILL need the bolt that holds the hose to the caliper though.

I put new rotors, seals, re-packed bearings, calipers, pads, and hoses on mine in just a couple of hours. Pretty easy job.
Old Jan 22, 2004 | 08:15 AM
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Working outside? I'd skip the hoses and bleeding for now. Get the pads on it and wait until spring (do a visual inspection, if the hoses are cracked, then it is time for new ones). And the allen bolt is a 3/8's allen (I use a 3/8 drive allen socket from sears or your parts store and a ratchet).

Stay warm!
Old Jan 22, 2004 | 12:16 PM
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Skip the hoses and bleeding for now. When spring comes, get a set of braided steel hose. I did and it made the pedal a little firmer than it used to be. Not sure if it was because i had older rubber hose or whether it works better because there is less give in the hose.
Old Jan 22, 2004 | 01:00 PM
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Agreed on the hoses. Don't mess with them in the cold unless they're cracked or falling apart. Then go to steel braided lines.
Old Jan 22, 2004 | 10:32 PM
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I got the Earl's set and they are a 5 piece kit for under $100. One for each side and one in the center.
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