first real wrench job

[BlackVert]

i just finished changing the rear break pads on my car. this is probably no big deal for most of you, but it is the first maintenance item i have done myself! the only other thing i have done myself is replace the maf and install the tweecer and the stereo.

what does it cost to have that done by a mechanic?

and i didn't break anything or cut myself open!

- chris

 

[BlueOvalStangGT]

ahhh i remember the day i first installed my xpipe and flows, gas was only a $2.33!

 

[HoofnIt]

I need to change mine as well. Did you need any special tools or was it pretty straight forward? Any hints or suggestions?

 

[final5-0]

Good for you!!!

Gives you a sense of satisfaction, don't it.

Later
Grady

 

[AznStanger3v]

I need to change mine as well. Did you need any special tools or was it pretty straight forward? Any hints or suggestions?

get a c clamp to compress the piston in the caliper

 

[BlackVert]

get a c clamp to compress the piston in the caliper

apparenlty, the c clamp is ok for the fronts, but on the rears, you are not supposed to use a c clamp. you have to turn the piston clockwise to compress it again. i read you can use a pair of needle nose pliers, but i got the tool at Sears. some people call it a "Rubik's Cube" because it is a six sided cube shaped tool. i also have a carpenter's clamp which was really useful. i could tighten it down on the caliper to keep it in place while i was trying to line up the bolts when i was putting it back together.

i followed these instructions:

http://mustangworld.com/ourpics/fcar/brakepad1.htm


the clamp:

the "Rubik's Cube" - about $10 at Sears

hope this helps.

 

[Sleepy McNastee]

apparenlty, the c clamp is ok for the fronts, but on the rears, you are not supposed to use a c clamp. you have to turn the piston clockwise to compress it again.

Yeah, I messed up a clamp figuring out that you have to screw the rear pistons back in.

 

[94GTStang]

Yea, I forgot about turning in the piston. But I had to get the rubix cube from work and it did just fine.

I upgraded to Hawk pads on the rear and I love them!

 

[super302]

good for you, feels good when you dont have to pay a mechanic your hard earned money

 

[mustangmatt685]

make sure you disconnect the ebrake cable, its just a little "e" shaped clip and with needle nosed pliers it comes out, makes work much easier - box end wrenches are your friend too

 

[89MustangGX]

Congrats -- great place to start.

 

[BlackVert]

Congrats -- great place to start.

thanks. next thing i think i'll try is checking my fuel pressure

 

[AznStanger3v]

checking fuel pressure takes about 3 and a half minutes..... i think youll fair pretty well

 

[gcomfx.com]

3.5 minutes? How long does it take you to check the air in your tires?

Back on topic... it starts with the brakes, then the next thing you know you've pulled your tranny 3 times due to bad stall converters.

But at least I'm finally becoming a gearhead myself.

 

[rudeone707]

Back on topic... it starts with the brakes, then the next thing you know you've pulled your tranny 3 times due to bad stall converters.

or noisy TOBs.