Front Brake Pads ,

[toneinblack]

Hi all,

Just started to get the grinding noise coming from front brakes when using brakes and will dig out the haynes manual and replace the front pads but will i run into any problems or are they pretty straight forward? ( i did use the search box but it seems down atm)

thanks all,

:D

[Guest vr6galaxy]

Real easy if you take your time, read the book in advance and all will be ok :D remember to release the bleed nipple and allow the excess fluid to drain out that way when you retract the piston back into the caliper!

[malcolm.dobell]

Well, When I started to get grinding noises on mk 1, I got it dealt with by a dealer and it wasn't 4 sets of pads but 4 discs as well. Grinding is a sign that the pad backin has been running on ther disc

[Guest vr6galaxy]

Grinding is a sign that the pad backin has been running on the disc

 

could be? how long has the noise been occuring Tone?

[GSMGuy]

Usually, the first grinding is where the backing of the pads is touching the outer (unworn) rim of the disc.. The more worn the discs, the earlier this will happen.. I can even be way before the warning light comes on.. As long as you replace the pads, there will normally be no probs, as the thicker friction material will move the backing away from the lip - I use it as an early warning reminder!

 

 

Mike

[Masked Marauder]

Or get the lip removed.

[GSMGuy]

Or get the lip removed.

Does anyone offer this service for girlfriends????

 

Mike

[seatkid]

Just inspect the discs, if they are heavily worn or grooved, change them.

Its easy and not too expensive and guarantees tip top performance.

 

You will find if you fit new pads to worn/grooved discs then braking will not only be poor for a considerable time (until they bed in) but the pads will wear faster anyway...

 

I would say change the discs every second pad change anyway.

[toneinblack]

Thanks for the replies , just got in from work, there has been a grinding noise for the last couple of days , hopefully it isnt discs as well as pads but will have a good look when i do it tomorrrow , ( fingers crossed )

tone.

[Buncers]

Just changed my front brake pads over the weekend.

 

Problems encountered are -

 

1) you need a 7mm hex key - not normally in a standard kit. I bought one with a half inch socket on the end. Makes it easier to remove the caliper guide pins - specially if a garage has previously done your brakes.

 

2) Bleed nipple needs a strange imperial size spanner.

 

3) You need a brake hose clamp - I couldn't find one so ended up draining and renewing all the brake fluid - pretty quick with assistance.

 

4) G-Clamp or special tool needed for pushing cylinder back.

 

5) The spring clip can be tricky to replace - comes off easily enough.

 

Technique I found best was - put sharp end in the holes, fit bottom half of spring over caliper. Then holding all in place, pull top end of spring over caliper with pliers.

 

6) Getting at fluid reservoir is an utter pig. You need to remove air filter cover and hose and soft shield thing at top back of engine compartment, and then you still need a funnel.

 

I managed to drop a funnel into the engine and had to remove the undershield to get it out - so be careful.

 

 

Brakes are now really fanastic - after bedding in (about 5 miles).