Safety First:
* Jack up the car securely on jack stands. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wear safety glasses and gloves.
* Use wheel chocks on the wheels that remain on the ground.
* Disconnect the battery's negative terminal to prevent accidental electrical shorts.
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands
* Lug wrench
* Wheel chocks
* Socket set (metric) with extensions and a ratchet
* Torque wrench (critical for proper tightening)
* Brake caliper piston compression tool (C-clamp method is possible but a tool is recommended)
* Wire brush or brake cleaner
* New brake rotors (ensure they're the correct ones for your C6)
* Anti-seize lubricant (for caliper mounting bolts)
* Possibly a caliper bracket removal tool (depending on your C6 year and model)
Steps:
1. Secure the vehicle: Raise the vehicle and securely place it on jack stands. Engage the parking brake and use wheel chocks.
2. Remove the wheel: Loosen the lug nuts with the lug wrench before lifting the car. Remove the wheel.
3. Remove the caliper:
* Locate the caliper mounting bolts. They usually require a 15mm or 14mm socket (check your manual).
* Compress the caliper piston. Use a caliper piston compression tool. This is crucial to make space for the new, thicker rotor. Be prepared for brake fluid to escape, so have a rag or container ready.
* Remove the caliper mounting bolts. Carefully remove the caliper and hang it up using some strong wire to keep it from dangling and putting stress on the brake hose. Do not let the caliper hang by the brake line.
4. Remove the brake rotor: Sometimes the rotor just slides off the hub; other times it may be held by a few small bolts (consult your manual). If bolts are present, carefully remove them.
5. Clean the hub: Use a wire brush or brake cleaner to clean the wheel hub where the new rotor will mount. Remove any rust or debris.
6. Install the new brake rotor: Carefully slide the new rotor onto the wheel studs. Ensure it's seated correctly.
7. Install the caliper:
* Mount the caliper back onto the bracket, making sure the brake pads are properly seated against the rotor.
* Install the caliper mounting bolts and tighten them to the manufacturer's specified torque (found in your repair manual). Use anti-seize lubricant on the threads.
8. Reinstall the wheel: Carefully place the wheel back on the studs and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (opposite nuts). Then, torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specification (your repair manual is essential here).
9. Lower the vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
10. Test the brakes: Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times to build up pressure. Then, carefully test the brakes in a safe, controlled environment. If the pedal feels spongy or the brakes don't function correctly, you'll need to investigate further. You may need to bleed the brakes.
Important Considerations:
* Bleeding the brakes: Depending on how much fluid was displaced when compressing the caliper piston, you might need to bleed your brakes to remove any air that may have entered the system. This is a separate procedure and requires a helper.
* Brake pad inspection: While you have the caliper off, inspect your brake pads for wear. If they're worn down, replace them.
* Professional help: If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your C6 Corvette to a qualified mechanic. Brake systems are crucial for safety, and incorrect installation can have serious consequences.
This information is for general guidance only. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's year and model for detailed instructions and torque specifications. Improper installation can lead to brake failure, which can be dangerous.
