Changing brake discs - What tools are required?

[Boatbuoy]

Dear All,

So, I've ordered some replacement discs (fronts & rears) to go on my car and just want to understand which tools I need before I get started. Once I start I want to get it finished and avoid the usual engineering cul-de-sac on a Sunday afternoon when the shops have closed!

Regards (and thanks in advance, as always),

Olly

[scotty_d]

All you need is a 19mm socket for the wheels and some Allen keys to get the calipers off it is a very easy job ti do with basic tools

[Boatbuoy]

I thought it would be, but just wanted to check.

[Tanguero]

A rubber mallet is handy for getting the rears off. They can get stuck on the handbrake shoes.

[gruffalo]

8mm allen key for the frony brakes and a breaker bar, they are normally tight and a normal allen key just twists.

If you have the bells then the allen key you need for the bolt holding the disc to the bell are imperial in size and I think 7/16 nut on the inside. Use a socket based allen key with a tee bar on these so you get even pressure on each side otherwise they just round off and need cutting off.

Make sure you have the correct tools before you start and it is a quick job, did both fronts in a couple of hours on mine.

[scotty_d]

My best tools i ever bought for working on the car are these.

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/...

and this

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/...


no Allen cap bolt will ever give you hassle again.

Edited by scotty_d on Saturday 21st April 07:18

[ridds]

I would suggest you torque the caliper bolts up when up put them back on.

[ukkid35]

If you are changing the discs and pads, then now is a good time to flush the brake fluid. Sadly if your car is anything like mine then the bleed nipples will be seized... Do not use a spanner if they don't open easily, use a socket on a T bar, this will minimise the chance of them snapping.

Nothing is ever easy or simple... don't believe anyone who tells you it is.

[Demondad]

When I did my fronts, the discs were rusted onto the hubs quite well, so a few thumps with a copper mallet persuaded it off. Cleaned up with wire brush, good as new.