Tools you'll likely need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the vehicle.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes, including those for caliper bolts, brake line fittings (potentially), and possibly caliper piston compression tool.
* C-clamp or caliper piston compressor tool: To compress the caliper piston.
* Pliers: Possibly needle-nose pliers for brake line clips.
* Brake cleaner: To clean brake components.
* Penetrating lubricant (like PB Blaster): To help loosen rusted bolts.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specification (found in your repair manual).
* New brake pads and rotors: Ensure they're the correct ones for your 1990 Pontiac 6000LE.
Steps:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake firmly, and use wheel chocks on the rear wheels. Raise the vehicle using a jack and securely support it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Caliper:
* Locate the caliper bolts securing the caliper to the caliper bracket. Apply penetrating lubricant if needed and carefully remove the bolts.
* Gently support the caliper as you remove it. You may need to use a bungee cord or wire to hang the caliper to keep it out of the way and prevent stressing the brake line.
4. Compress the Caliper Piston: Using a C-clamp or specialized caliper piston compressor tool, carefully compress the caliper piston. This is necessary to make room for the new, thicker brake pads. Be careful not to damage the piston seal.
5. Remove the Old Brake Pads: The old brake pads should now be easily removable.
6. Remove the Rotor: Depending on your 6000LE's configuration, the rotor may be held on by a few bolts or may simply slide off after removing the caliper and pads. Consult your repair manual.
7. Install the New Rotor: Clean the rotor mounting surface thoroughly. Install the new rotor, ensuring it's seated correctly.
8. Install the New Brake Pads: Install the new brake pads into the caliper bracket. Make sure they slide in smoothly and are seated correctly.
9. Install the Caliper: Carefully remount the caliper onto the bracket and securely tighten the bolts to the correct torque specification (from your repair manual).
10. Bleed the Brakes (Important): After installing the caliper, you'll likely need to bleed the brakes to remove any air that may have entered the system. This requires two people – one to pump the brake pedal and one to open and close the bleeder valve on the caliper. Consult your repair manual for the proper bleeding procedure.
11. Reinstall the Wheel: Replace the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the correct torque specification.
12. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands.
13. Test the Brakes: Test the brakes carefully before driving the vehicle, ensuring they work correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A factory repair manual specific to your 1990 Pontiac 6000LE is invaluable. It will provide precise instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams.
* Safety: Brake work is crucial for safety. If you're not comfortable with any of these steps, seek professional help. Improperly installed brakes can lead to accidents.
* Brake Fluid: Be mindful of brake fluid spills; it's corrosive and damaging to paint. Have rags and proper cleaning materials on hand.
This guide provides a general overview. Always consult a repair manual for your specific vehicle model before starting any brake work. Safety should be your top priority.
