Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Changing brakes, but what about rotors?

tacoma with 30k on it. i can %26quot;feel%26quot; im gonna need to replace the brakes at aroudn 35k. how do i tell if i should resurface rotors? it doesnt really feel bumpy or choppy when i brake. how much should i pay to resurface my rotors? do i need to do two or 4. back are drum.Changing brakes, but what about rotors?
If your back wheels have drum brakes, you won't need rotors for them.

Resurfacing rotors usually isn't worth it. Even with newer cars, new rotors can be bought for $40-50 and will include a warranty. Brakes are something I don't like to chance. It's a small investment with a large reward.Changing brakes, but what about rotors?
30,000 miles on it your rotors should be fine, when using your new pads take it easy for the first 5000 miles.Changing brakes, but what about rotors?
While you (or a service centre) are changing your front brake pads, check the rotor condition. If they are reasonably in good condition they will be ok. Measure the thickness of the rotor with a micrometer or caliper. They must be within the car manufacturer's specs.

After replacing the pads, %26quot;run them in%26quot; as specified by the manufacturer. This is normally a few heavy brake applications at different speeds. about 15 minutes is needed, not 5000 miles.

Change you rear brake shoes every second pad change.



Good luck.Changing brakes, but what about rotors?
when ever brake pads are re-newed, rotors must be machined smooth for flush contact (sweet), now rotors should only be replaced when they are close, or exceed minimum thickness (check specs through manufacturer or ring a rotor supplier, because sometimes your local mechanic might want to do a 'swifty' e.g. he loves your cash). Do your mechanical research and save a bundle.Changing brakes, but what about rotors?
you would be better to just spend the extra money and put new rotors on if needed, new will make your new brakes last longer also.Changing brakes, but what about rotors?
You should resurface the rotors or replace them with some Centric Econo rotors. The new rotors may cost just a few bux more than a resurfacing and are better than most other premium brands.



I sometimes %26quot;pad slap%26quot; when I do a break job on my cars if the rotors don't have any dark blue areas. I always replace the brake hardware kits, and I never have any brake noise.



I would also inspect the rear brakes. Clean out the dust with a garden hose and then hit it with some brake parts cleaner. Pull the boots back on the wheel cylinders and make sure there isn't any brake fluid leaking. These are just dust caps. Then adjust your rear brakes and slap the tires back on using a torque wrench. Exact specifications don't matter as much as even torque