Here's a general overview. Specifics might vary slightly depending on the exact Eldorado model (e.g., front-wheel drive vs. rear-wheel drive, different caliper designs). Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1985 Cadillac Eldorado for detailed instructions and diagrams. A Haynes or Chilton manual is a good investment.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Socket wrench set: With various sizes of sockets and extensions.
* C-clamp or caliper compression tool: To compress the caliper piston.
* Pliers: For removing cotter pins (if applicable).
* Wrench for caliper mounting bolts: Likely a 13mm or 15mm, but check your manual.
* Brake cleaner: To clean brake parts.
* Grease: For caliper pins (if applicable).
* New brake pads: Ensure you get the correct pads for your Eldorado's front or rear brakes.
* Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
* Gloves: To keep your hands clean.
General Steps (This is a simplified overview; consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels. Jack up the car and securely support it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Locate the Caliper: Identify the brake caliper (the metal housing that holds the brake pads).
4. Compress the Caliper Piston: This is crucial. Use the C-clamp or caliper compression tool to push the piston back into the caliper. You may need to turn the piston as you compress it. Brake fluid will be displaced, so have a container ready to catch any overflow and potentially check/top off your brake fluid reservoir.
5. Remove the Caliper: Remove the caliper mounting bolts (usually two) and carefully remove the caliper. Sometimes you can simply hang it from the suspension using a wire or bungee cord. Do not let the caliper hang by the brake hose.
6. Remove Old Brake Pads: The old brake pads should now be easily accessible. Remove them.
7. Install New Brake Pads: Carefully insert the new brake pads into their slots.
8. Reinstall the Caliper: Put the caliper back on, ensuring it's correctly aligned. Tighten the mounting bolts to the manufacturer's specifications (found in your repair manual).
9. Reinstall the Wheel: Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts.
10. Lower the Car: Carefully lower the car to the ground.
11. Tighten Lug Nuts: Once the car is on the ground, give the lug nuts a final tightening.
12. Pump the Brakes: Get back in the car and firmly pump the brake pedal several times to push the pads against the rotors. Check for proper brake pedal feel.
13. Test Drive: Take a short test drive, ensuring the brakes work properly. Listen for any unusual noises.
Important Considerations:
* Brake Fluid: As mentioned, you'll likely displace some brake fluid. Check and top off the brake fluid reservoir as needed. Low brake fluid is a serious safety issue.
* Rotor Inspection: While you're in there, inspect the brake rotors for wear and scoring. They may need resurfacing or replacement.
* Caliper Slides: The caliper slides (pins) might be seized or dirty. Clean and lubricate them with appropriate grease as per your repair manual instructions. This is vital for proper caliper movement.
* Parking Brake: Some Eldorados may have a separate parking brake mechanism. Consult your repair manual to see how it interacts with the brake pads (if at all).
This is a simplified overview. Consult a repair manual for your specific 1985 Cadillac Eldorado before attempting this repair. Improper brake work can be dangerous. If you're unsure about any step, seek professional help.
