Brake Rotors

gameboo · Post by **gameboo** » 01 Jul 2007, 13:52

I took my volvo up to Canada from California (1000 miles each way) . The brakes went about half way up there. So I drove the car about 1500 miles with bad breaks. lol
Now that the intro is over... down to business:

Im going to be replacing the Rear Brake Rotors on my 93' Vovlo 940 Turbo.

I havent done this before, and was wondering if there was any advice on this. Any tricks or tricky things to look out for.

Are there any hidden bolts?

What exactly is holding on the rotor?

Thanks,

Rich

Post by **billofdurham** » 01 Jul 2007, 15:38

It is usually a straightforward job.

Before you jack up the car loosen off the parking brake adjuster. It is located inside the car. Remove the rear ashtray and its holder to gain access.

Jack up and support the rear of the car, remove the road wheel, the brake pads and the caliper. Tie up the caliper to the spring using a piece of wire to prevent damage to the brake pipe.

The rotor (disc in the UK) is held on by a retaining pin which unscrews. If the rotor is stuck (usual) tap it with a plastic faced hammer or an ordinary hammer and a block of wood. This bit is not really necessary in your case as you are replacing the rotors.

Put on the new rotor and fasten it in place with the retaining pin. Replace caliper and install new pads. You should really replace the caliper bolts. Tighten them to 43lb/ft (58nm).

When you have finished both sides lower the car before adjusting the parking brake.

Hope this helps.

Bill.

gameboo · Post by **gameboo** » 01 Jul 2007, 18:48

ya. Thanks a lot.

Also, I was wondering. If only one of the rotors is bad, do I need to replace both sides? and if so, why?

Post by **billofdurham** » 02 Jul 2007, 13:03

With brakes it is policy to change both sides when replacing pads, shoes or rotors to keep things in balance.

Bill.

gameboo · Post by **gameboo** » 02 Jul 2007, 19:13

those bolts that hold on the caliper were so tight I couldnt get either of the two off. I tried WD40 and hitting my wrench with a hammer, but no luck. The single rotor bolt i could deal with.

Any tips on the two caliper bolts?

Thanks.

Post by **billofdurham** » 03 Jul 2007, 12:30

The only other thing I can suggest is heating the bolts gently. However, when working on calipers too much heat can damage the seals so it must be done very carefully.

Bill.

gameboo · Post by **gameboo** » 05 Jul 2007, 04:15

Ok.

Thanks