Disclaimer: Working on brakes is a critical safety system. If done improperly, it can lead to serious injury or death. Proceed at your own risk.
Here's a step-by-step guide:
Tools & Materials You'll Need:
* New Brake Pads: Make sure you get the correct pads for your 1995 Eldorado.
* New Brake Rotors (Optional, but Recommended): If your rotors are worn, scored, or below the minimum thickness, replace them.
* Brake Cleaner: To clean the parts.
* C-Clamp or Brake Caliper Compressor: To compress the caliper piston.
* Jack and Jack Stands: Crucial for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Lug Wrench: For removing the wheels.
* Socket Set: Various sizes, including possibly 13mm, 15mm, and 18mm depending on your car. A 1/2" drive set is recommended.
* Wrench Set: To handle any bolts the socket set can't.
* Allen Wrenches (Possibly): Some older calipers may use Allen head bolts.
* Wire Brush: To clean parts if needed.
* Penetrating Oil (Like PB Blaster): In case bolts are rusty.
* Torque Wrench: Essential for tightening bolts to the correct specifications.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes.
* Old Rags or Shop Towels: For cleanup.
* Brake Grease (High-Temp): For lubricating parts.
* Flat Head Screwdriver or Pry Bar: To help remove parts.
* Brake Fluid (DOT 3 or DOT 4): To top off if needed.
Steps:
1. Safety First:
* Park your car on a level, solid surface.
* Engage the parking brake firmly.
* Chock the rear wheels to prevent the car from rolling.
* Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheel you'll be working on (don't remove them completely yet).
2. Raise the Car:
* Place the jack under the designated jacking point for your car. Consult your owner's manual if unsure.
* Raise the car until the tire is off the ground.
* IMPORTANT: Place jack stands under the car's frame or designated support points. Never rely on the jack alone.
* Lower the car onto the jack stands.
* Remove the lug nuts and the wheel.
3. Access the Brake Caliper:
* Locate the brake caliper behind the brake rotor.
* Inspect for rust or damage.
* Use penetrating oil on the caliper bolts if they are rusty.
4. Remove the Brake Caliper:
* Usually there are two caliper bolts holding the caliper to the mounting bracket.
* Use the socket or wrench to remove the caliper bolts.
* Do not disconnect the brake line!
* Carefully lift the caliper off the rotor.
* Use a wire hanger or something similar to suspend the caliper so it doesn't hang by the brake line.
5. Remove the Brake Pads:
*The brake pads will be either held in by clips, pins, or will simply slide out.
* Examine your set-up and determine the method for removal.
* Take note of how the pads fit in the bracket.
* Remove the old pads.
6. Compress the Caliper Piston:
* Use a C-clamp or brake caliper compressor to slowly and evenly push the piston back into the caliper cylinder. This creates space for the new, thicker pads. Be careful not to damage the piston. You may need to open the brake fluid reservoir to avoid over-pressurizing the system, and be prepared to clean up any overflowed brake fluid.
7. Remove the Rotor:
* Sometimes, the rotor will come off easily.
* Other times it may be stuck and will require the use of a hammer or rubber mallet to tap off the rotor.
* If it doesn't want to come off easily, try using penetrating oil and tap from the back to loosen the rotor.
* Sometimes, there are small screws that hold on the rotor as well.
8. Prepare the New Parts:
* Clean new rotors with brake cleaner (if using new rotors).
* Apply a thin layer of brake grease to the backs of the new brake pads and the metal areas where the pads will contact the caliper or bracket.
9. Install the New Parts:
* Place the new rotor onto the wheel studs (if replacing them).
* Install the new brake pads into the caliper mounting bracket.
* Carefully slide the caliper (with the compressed piston) back over the rotor and the new pads.
* Reinstall and tighten the caliper bolts.
10. Repeat on the Other Side:
* Complete steps 2 through 9 for the other front brake.
11. Reinstall the Wheels:
* Put the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
* Lower the car back to the ground.
* Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
12. Pump the Brakes:
* Start the car and pump the brake pedal a few times until it feels firm.
* Check the brake fluid level and add if needed.
13. Test the Brakes:
* Carefully test your brakes in a safe area to ensure they are working correctly.
* Take it slow and see how they respond.
* Listen for any unusual noises.
Important Torque Specs:
* Caliper Bolts: Torque to the manufacturer's specifications. Check your car's repair manual. Usually, around 25-35 ft-lbs.
* Wheel Lug Nuts: Torque to the manufacturer's specifications (usually around 100 ft-lbs).
Tips:
* Take photos during disassembly to help you remember how everything goes back together.
* Work on one side at a time, so you have the other side as a reference.
* If you are unsure about anything, consult a repair manual or a professional mechanic.
* After changing brakes, avoid hard braking for the first 100-200 miles to allow the pads to seat correctly.
Troubleshooting:
* Spongy Brakes: Could indicate air in the brake lines or a leak. Re-check connections and bleed the brake system if needed.
* Squealing Brakes: Could mean you forgot to put grease on the contact points or that your new brake pads are low quality.
* Grinding Brakes: Usually means there is metal on metal contact, which could mean worn pads, or that something is installed incorrectly.
This guide provides a general overview. Always consult your car's repair manual for specific instructions and torque specifications for your 1995 Cadillac Eldorado. Good luck, and be safe!
