One expensive bolt
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Driver School Candidate
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 17
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From: SC
One expensive bolt
Wifes car needed brake rotors and pads changed so I figured I'd save myself a few bucks and do it myself. I've done enough brake jobs where I should be able to do them in my sleep. Well, not this one. There are 2 caliper mounting bolts on the rear calipers that hold it to the hub. Top one came out without an issue. Bottom one seemed really tight so I grabbed a cheater bar to put a little extra pressure on it. Used mild force and it didn't budge. Manned up on it a little and it felt like it turned. Repositioned bar for another pull and SNAP. Broke off the lower bolt. Took the car to a local mechanic this morning to see if he could drill it out or extract. No luck as he broke 2 easy outs in the process. He said he thought it was cross threaded at the factory as these were the original rotors. Found the part online at Lexus of South Atlanta for $300 and the bolt for $6. Now it looks like a 5.5 hour job to replace the assembly. This has turned out to be quite the expensive brake job! Anyone had a similar experience with these bolts? Ruined my afternoon!
Last edited by mfaile; Mar 11, 2013 at 11:22 AM. Reason: grammar
Can't speak for this specific part though I've had similar encounters in the DIY maintenance stuff. I share in the frustration and what was supposed to be a quick job turns into $$ and a multi-day project. 
When the wife asks me how long I'm going to be, she multiplies the time and cost by about 3X.
When the wife asks me how long I'm going to be, she multiplies the time and cost by about 3X.
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Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 66
Likes: 2
From: Md
I had this issue with mine, ended up replacing the rear knuckle. You need to heat the knuckle where the bolt is at and carefully and slowly remove the bolt. It was frustrating for sure but with a little luck and patience you can get it done!
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 17
Likes: 0
From: SC
Sewell, as well as my local Lexus dealership was $396, Lexus of South Atlanta was $300?? Found them thru a web search. All parts seem to be heavily discounted versus other Lexus dealers.
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you could bring the part to a machinist to fill,and retap that bolt hole for much cheaper. also if you find a hardware store (bolt store, not home depot/lowes/similar) you might be able to get that bolt for a dollar or less, grade 8.8, zinc plated
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Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 66
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From: Md
I broke the first one on the left side, ended up replacing the knuckle. On the right side I heated it with a torch and backed it out slow. Just be careful and go slow.
this problem wouldnt be limited to just diyers.
it would be something rare that mechanic shops and lexus themselves would encounter.
as for the bolt corroding in there, i wouldnt think there would be that much corroding in a ls430,
and im not saying that automotive manufacturers dont using locking compound, but ive never ran into it.
even so, i think the locking compound, even it were red, would give before the bolt.
it would be something rare that mechanic shops and lexus themselves would encounter.
as for the bolt corroding in there, i wouldnt think there would be that much corroding in a ls430,
and im not saying that automotive manufacturers dont using locking compound, but ive never ran into it.
even so, i think the locking compound, even it were red, would give before the bolt.
Rookie
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 66
Likes: 2
From: Md
this problem wouldnt be limited to just diyers.
it would be something rare that mechanic shops and lexus themselves would encounter.
as for the bolt corroding in there, i wouldnt think there would be that much corroding in a ls430,
and im not saying that automotive manufacturers dont using locking compound, but ive never ran into it.
even so, i think the locking compound, even it were red, would give before the bolt.
it would be something rare that mechanic shops and lexus themselves would encounter.
as for the bolt corroding in there, i wouldnt think there would be that much corroding in a ls430,
and im not saying that automotive manufacturers dont using locking compound, but ive never ran into it.
even so, i think the locking compound, even it were red, would give before the bolt.
Lexus techs what is your experience changing rear rotors on the 430???
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