Here's a general overview. This is not a comprehensive guide, and you should consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle for detailed instructions and torque specifications. Improperly tightened components can lead to failure and injury.
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and Jack Stands: Absolutely essential for safety.
* Wheel Chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug Wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Socket Set and Wrenches: Various sizes, including those to fit caliper bolts, brake line fittings (if applicable), and drum retaining hardware (if applicable).
* C-Clamp or Brake Caliper Compressor: To compress the caliper piston(s). Necessary for disc brakes.
* Brake Cleaner: To clean parts thoroughly.
* New Rear Brake Pads (and Rotors if needed): Ensure you get the correct parts for your specific vehicle.
* New Hardware (if needed): Caliper bolts, etc., should be replaced unless they're in perfect condition.
* Torque Wrench: Crucial for proper tightening of bolts.
* Penetrating Oil (PB Blaster or similar): Helps loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* Gloves and Safety Glasses: Protect yourself from grease, dirt, and flying debris.
* Repair Manual: A Haynes or Chilton manual for your specific year and model is highly recommended.
Steps (General - Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, chock the front wheels, and use the jack to lift the rear of the car. Securely support the vehicle on jack stands before proceeding.
2. Remove the Wheel: Loosen the lug nuts slightly before lifting the car. Then remove the wheel completely.
3. Identify Brake Type: The 1997 Cutlass Supreme could have either drum brakes or disc brakes in the rear. This significantly alters the procedure.
* If Disc Brakes:
* Compress the Caliper Piston: Use a C-clamp or brake caliper compressor to push the piston back into the caliper. This creates space for the new, thicker brake pads. Turn slowly and evenly to avoid damaging the piston seal.
* Remove the Caliper: Unbolt the caliper from the mounting bracket. Be careful; it's likely to be filled with brake fluid. You may need to support the caliper with a bungee cord or wire to keep it from hanging by the brake line.
* Remove the Brake Pads: The pads should slide out.
* Inspect the Rotor: Check the rotor for scoring, grooves, or excessive wear. Replace if necessary.
* Install New Pads: Insert the new pads into the caliper.
* Reinstall the Caliper: Reattach the caliper to the mounting bracket.
* Bleed the Brakes (Important): After reinstalling the calipers, you'll need to bleed the brakes to remove any air that may have entered the system. This usually involves using a brake bleeder and a helper to pump the brake pedal.
* If Drum Brakes:
* Remove the Drum: This usually involves removing the retaining clips or bolts and carefully prying or tapping the drum off the axle.
* Remove the Brake Shoes: The shoes are held in place by springs and other hardware. Take pictures or make notes as you disassemble to remember how everything goes back together.
* Inspect the Drums and Shoes: Check the drums for scoring or excessive wear. Replace if necessary. Inspect the shoes for wear and tear; replace if needed. Adjusters may need attention.
* Install New Shoes: Reassemble the shoes, springs, and other hardware in the reverse order of removal, paying close attention to the correct placement of each component.
* Install the Drum: Reinstall the drum.
4. Reinstall the Wheel: Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.
5. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
6. Final Tightening: Tighten the lug nuts fully.
7. Test Drive: Carefully test the brakes to ensure they are working correctly.
Again, this is a simplified overview. Consult a repair manual specific to your 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and safety precautions. If you are uncomfortable performing this task, it's best to have a qualified mechanic do it for you. Improper brake repair can be incredibly dangerous.
