lopchurng

I am new to this forum and thank you in advance for your advice.

I have a 2000 RX 300 AWD and I changed my front rotors to Brembos as suggested here and Raybestos Advanced Technology ceramic pads all around yesterday. Brakes feel fine...no pulling or shake, no noise, but I am no expert. I did not bleed the brakes, just took out some fluid as the caliper was compressed.
Caliper pins were lightly greased, but could have done more after thinking about it.

The front wheels were producing light white/grayish smoke since the change. I drove it around for about 5 miles hoping it was oil residue or some sort of break in, but still smoking. I have left it alone overnight.

I have read there is some break in period or could be a stuck caliper. If it was a stuck caliper, what would that produce...heavier smoke? Please let me know whatever advice there is...

Thanks,

Lop

carguy07

Did you reuse the original shims or add any new ones? Sounds like the pads do not have enough clearance and are dragging.

lopchurng

I used the ones that came with the Raybestos...should I have kept the original shims?

carguy07

No, just the ones that came with the pads (probably already attached to the back of the new pads). Some guys have used extra shims and had the brakes dragging.

Is this happening on both sides? Are the pads moving freely in the torque plate/saddle with the caliper removed? Maybe they are binding and not retracting.

There is not a lot to screw up on these. Double check part #'s?

lopchurng

I thought they moved freely, but I will disassemble and relube what I can. Does just a shim's thickness cause brakes to drag?

Anyone else have this happen ever? Or, heard of a break in period for ceramic pads...it's my first time using them.

Thanks

salimshah

If you could swing back the caliper on to the pads+shims with ease, then the thickness is not a problem. The lube has to be done with care. Too much will attract trouble.

If you remain completely stock, the problem is in the assembly. If you switch any part, you have to worry about clearances. Check for any rubbing that may be going on.


Salim

LiCelsior

iTrader: (32)

you are suppose to properly bed the pads in with fresh rotors. the smoke is probably from the think layer of chemicals on the rotor and on the pad.

TEXASMAJOR

iTrader: (2)

I wouldve cleaned everything with brake cleaner.
I also wouldve bled the system regardless.

hypervish

Did you clean the rotors with brake cleaner before installing them? Rotors are always shipped with a oily substance on them and it's best to clean that off with brake cleaner before going any further.

lopchurng

It happens on both sides of the front rotors...I will try cleaning everything with brake cleaner and see.

Nolan