Doing brakes

[todras]

Bought my SHO a couple weeks ago and the braking quality is unacceptable for such a quick car. I'm throwing on Bendix Titanium Pads (Semi-Metallic) which I put on my Tour and love. Even though they dust but not as much as stockers. I clean my car enough so it doesn't matter. My question is...Any pointers for doing SHO brakes? Anything quirky. I did my dad's '99 Taurus and it was pretty simple.

 

[Mr Anonymous]

The SHO brakes are very straightforward. Probably the most important thing is to properly torque the lug nuts to 80-105 ft. lbs. in a star pattern. The rotors have a tendency to warp, and improper torquing (or using an impact wrench) is usually the culprit.

Rotors are fairly cheap at places like AutoZone. If a visual inspection shows scoring, you should consider replacing them at the same time, otherwise the new pads will be short lived. (Even if they look OK visually, if you're getting a lot of vibration when braking, they could be warped).

Save yourself a little hassle and buy one of those caliper piston spreaders for ~$8. It's easier and better to use than a c-clamp for pushing the piston back into the caliper to fit the new pads.

 

[todras]

I ask a simple question and I'm getting mooned. I usually use one of those quick grips from Home Depot to squeeze it back. They work like a charm. The rotors are surprisingly vibration free so I'm just going to throw pads on. I think I need to break down and buy a good torque wrench.

 

[projectSHO89]

If you're doing the rear brakes, the pistons screw in, not compress..

Plenty of posts about them recently.

Steve

 

[todras]

Thanks needle nose should help in that area.

 

[jelloslug]

You better get the tool for the rear calipers, needle nose arent gonna cut it. You can get it from Autozone for a $35 deposit (you get it back). Also those cheap little square tools that go on the end of a 3/8 ratchet dont work, there too small.

 

[Bizzy]

jelloslug:
You better get the tool for the rear calipers, needle nose arent gonna cut it. You can get it from Autozone for a $35 deposit (you get it back). Also those cheap little square tools that go on the end of a 3/8 ratchet dont work, there too small.

jelloslug is correct, the universal tool sucks. If you don't want to rent the real deal you can take some channel locks and turn it, but be super careful not to pinch the piston boot. You do that and you'll need to buy another caliper.

 

[projectSHO89]

K-D Tools, part number 3355

About 10-12 bucks at NAPA and other fine stores (except AutoZone, haven't seen it there).

Steve

 

[biker889]

i got one of the rear caliper tools at pep boys for about $8 and its the correct fit. its oval with 2 studs.

 

[todras]

Can anyone get me the part # and brand for the Pep Girls?

 

[Xs SHO 1]

just ask for the "caliper piston tool"...