Based on the information found in this thread I decided to do my own pads, and while I was at it, take photos so I could create a new thread with the steps and photo set.

So without further ado, here's my write up-

The tools-




21mm socket with tape to protect wheel finish-


Chassis Jacking Point-


Jacked car up and placed jackstand under chassis-


Opened master cylinder fluid reservoir-


Onto next step- front axle brake replacement

 

Remove the front wheel-


Caliper Detail-




At this point, based on previous pictures I have seen, the pin retaining the pads was inserted backwards (from the front, not the back).

Remove the clip holding the pin in place-

And remove the pin (can be done by hand if you place pressure on the plate holding the pads in)

Set aside pin, clip, and retainer plate-

 

Remove pads, detach the brakewear sensor (mine was broken)-





Broken sensor-


Next step- front pad installation

 

Cleaning supplies-






Removed backing plates from the pads, cleaned them up, and applied anti-squeal to the backs of the new pads.

 

Installation is reverse of the pad removal-





Broken sensor- will address that in a bit-



Next- Rear brake pads

 

 

Backing plates- noticed no anti-squeal on these like the fronts had when I removed them.


Detail of clip holding wear sensor (same as front)

 

The aftermath-


For reference, the pads I replaced had at least 75,000 miles on them.

Don't forget to put the cap back on the fluid reservoir- (note fluid level after pad change)



Sensor detail (front pad)




Since the pads lasted as long as they did, I didn't rush out to buy a new sensor. Looking at it, it's basically a copper wire loop in plastic that once worn through, makes the dash light appear. I pushed the wire through the plastic "pad" and cut the loop, removed the plastic "pad" and used a butt splice and joined the two wires. I then zip-tied the sensor to the spindle upright making sure to avoid areas that might rub. Voila- no more light, and I'm a big enough boy to remember to check my pads on occasion.

While they were off, I decided to clean/wax/and rotate my wheels-

 

After replacing the wheels and properly hand tightening them, I took a drive to "bed" in the brakes and check proper operation. No issues and brakes worked like a charm.

Tips- Use the right tools. Take your time. Work cleanly. Work safely.

When installing the front pads, and compressing the pistons, I used an old pad to apply pressure to push the pistons into the caliper equally. Pushing in on them individually only caused the other piston to push out.

No major headaches, and after changing countless pads in a variety of vehicles over the past 25 years I have to say this is the easiest pad replacement I have ever done.

Pads purchased from Iron Toad.

If I think of anything else, I'll edit. Hope someone finds this as useful as I did the other posts on the subject.

Todd

 

This is fantastic work. Excellent pictures.

This has got to go directly into the FAQ.

 

wow!!! nice write up!! Good details.......

 

TurboTodd: great thread, thanks for taking the time to post this up x2

 

So when you use the c-clamp to push the pistons back, you basically just use the old pad and compress that against the caliper's pin slot to push the piston back? Very nice that you don't even have to remove the lower flange pin and rotate the caliper up to push the pistons in. Looking at picture, I guess the fronts are four piston while backs are two?

Excellent writeup and nice close pictures.

 

On the fronts (four piston) if you try to compress the pistons individually, you only end up see-sawing the pistons back and forth. Using the C-clamp or a screwdriver against the old pad helps apply even pressure to both pistons. Compress one side, install pad, compress other, install other pad.

I talked about this with my brother yesterday, he said the brakes on the LS were like the ones on his motorcycle as far as ease of maintenance.

Yes 4 and 2 piston respectively.

Todd

 

great write up and the excellent photos really confirms how easy the pad change can be,,

thanks

Derry