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From digest.v6.n877 Mon Jul 14 06:24:37 1997
From: Geiger Lee <geiger_at_bigfoot.com>
Date: Sun, 13 Jul 1997 07:53:22 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: Amateur DIYer - <E30> brake pads
Hello all.
Yesterday I changed the pads on my '91 325iC. I ordered the Repco/Axxis
Deluxe pads from Eurasian and new lining sensors for around $60. A torque
wrench from Imparts for $25 and various other tools, wrenches, lubricants,
etc. for $35. All total $120. My local mechanic wanted $110 per axle and the
dealer wanted more. I had planned to buy stock pads until the dealer quoted
me $82 per axle for pads alone.
Prior to this work, the only other things I had done to this car were to
replace the air filter and the radio antenna mast. Doing something as
crucial as brakes had me nervous so I came to the digest for suggestions.
About a dozen people gave their advice and I had the Bentley's manual.
Good pieces of advice I received: 1. Buy a brake caliper spreader instead of
a C-clamp - $8, 2. use Repco Deluxe, 3. order new sensors, 4. use bungee
cord to hold up caliper, 5. be careful not to push piston in too far to
prevent brake fluid from pushing out of the brake fluid tank (unfortunately
it still happened).
Some mistakes made: 1. on the advice of several who said to use anti-squeak
compound, I used the "goo" kind. On the first wheel I didn't give it enough
time to dry and had to go back and clean off the pad carrier and caliper, 2.
brake fluid spill (see above), 3. in trying to remove one lug bolt, the lug
wrench slipped a little and when I torgued it, it twisted the top of the nut
strangely.
As I am very much a detailer-type person, I took the time while the wheels
were off to soak them in Simple Green (unabashed testimonial) and give them
a good cleaning. Larry Reynolds article in the Roundel gave some good advice
there.
Time-wise it took me 2.5 hours. This included one trip to the car parts
place, detailing the wheels and test drive after each axle. I feel next time
it will take about one hour. We'll find out soon as the Quest minivan's
brakes have been loud lately. It will be interesting to compare German
design with Japanese (or is it Ford's) design.
All in all, a very easy, satisfying first project for someone who has been
lurking on the digest for a long time and wanted to DO SOMETHING like
everyone else here has.
I hope that any other "lurkers" out there will be inspired to put down the
mouse and get out there and try it. If you do, EMail me and I would be happy
to send to you the collection of pieces of advice I received.
Thanks to all who helped!
Geiger Lee
'91 325iC <E30> 45K miles
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