Brake Job Tomorrow. Any tips\tricks?

[Sweet Lew]

Hello All,

I'm going to be replacing both front and rear pads and rotors tomorrow on my 2007 XC70. Thanks to the forum, I picked up Brembo rotors and Akebono ceramic pads. After watching FCP's DIY video, the job seems pretty straight forward, but I wanted to ask if anyone had any tips or tricks or where to be extra careful.

Thanks!

Lew

[acools]

Front is easy enough, on the back don't forget to remove the e-brake cover and back off the adjustment nut.
This loosens the e-brake inside the rear rotors.

Andres

[Astro14]

Do one side at a time. Leaving the other side untouched allows you to compare sides...so that you can get the spring on correctly...

[Franxc06]

Hi Sweet Lew here are my pointers :

1 make sure you clean any protective coatings from the new rotors
2 inspect and clean and lightly grease the callipers runners/ guides and put back the dust boot over them securely
3 check calliper's pistons bores for any corrosion and any brake fluid leaks ( if any change appropriate components e.g.piston "O" ring/seal , if any corrosion apparent you might think of getting a new brake calliper in pair
so you get even brake distribution pressure)
4 when installing the new pads pay attention that they sit in properly and square
5 bleed the brake hydraulic system from each calliper until fresh brake fluid comes through (use appropriate brake fluid as per specs )
6 bed the new brake pads as per their manufacture.
7 of course be extra careful as not spill any of the brake fluid old or new on your car very corrosive , if any mishaps hose of with plenty of water immediately .

I hope this is of some extra help
Cheers
franxc06

[tnduc]

Do one side at a time. Leaving the other side untouched allows you to compare sides...so that you can get the spring on correctly...

Very good idea- the best way to make sure it is reassembled correctly. Spring clips are easy to forget but very important to have.

[Sweet Lew]

Thanks everyone! So here is what I've picked up for the job:

Brembo rotors
Akebono pads
High temp multi-purpose grease
Synthetic brake grease

I have yet to pick up brake fluid. There is a Volvo dealer just around the corner from me and I could pick some up later today before I start. Is it recommended to have it on hand or could I see where the level is after the job is done and pick some up tomorrow?

[BillAileo]

You could wait although if you are going to replace the fluid it would probably take less of your time to do it all at once. I don't get my brake fluid from Volvo. I rotate between ATE Super Blue & ATE Amber DOT 4 fluid. They are the same fluid except for the color. Having a significantly different color for the new fluid makes it easier to know when you have completely bled out the old.

[Astro14]

+1 on the ATE fluid. Shop around. My local import car parts store has it for $14/QT. My MB dealer charges me $14/QT for genuine MB DOT4+. I flush the brakes with new pads and then every two years.

[billr99]

100% on the Blue ATE. Way easier to check level; plus as said, makes bleeding way easier, as well.

Cheers,

Bill

[Sweet Lew]

Thanks for the recommendation on ATE. The fluid was flushed at the dealer not too long ago, so I may pass on it for now.