I see in the DIY thread that we're suppose to take off the OEM shims and use them for the new pads, but I purchased some pads from autozone and they already have shims... In this case, should I still apply the anti squeal paste between the shims or install them as it is???

 

I would use the anti squeal paste and only use the shims if needed. The anit squeal will help with the contact between the piston and the pads.

 

Thanks for the reply, again, the paste goes on the back of the pad and then the shim goes on top of that. Is that correct?

 

I would try the fitment without the shim first. Usually you will not need it. The past goes on the back of the pad so it does not squeal once the piston contacts the pad.

 

Is the "shim" that came with/on the pad a true metal shim? I have some aftermarket pads that came with some sort of composite materials glued on the back as a shim and I re-used the OEM anti-squeal AND regular shim.

If I was you, I would re-use ALL of them.