Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and Jack Stands: Absolutely essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Lug Wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Wheel Chocks: To secure the other wheels.
* Socket Set and Ratchet: Appropriate sizes for lug nuts, caliper bolts, and potentially rotor retaining hardware (if applicable).
* C-clamp or caliper compression tool: To compress the caliper piston.
* Hammer (rubber mallet preferred): To gently tap components if needed.
* Wrench (possibly): For caliper bracket bolts, depending on design.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): To loosen rusty or stuck bolts.
* New rear brake rotors: Ensure you get the correct ones for your Lumina.
* Brake cleaner: To clean the brake parts.
* Torque wrench: To properly tighten bolts.
* Gloves: To keep your hands clean.
* Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the front wheels. Jack up the rear of the car and securely place it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the wheel.
3. Expose the Rotor: You'll see the brake caliper, brake pads, and the rotor.
4. Compress the Caliper Piston: This is crucial. Use a C-clamp or caliper compression tool to push the caliper piston back into the caliper housing. You may need to turn the piston as you compress it. This creates space for the new, slightly thicker rotor.
5. Remove the Caliper: Some Lumina models may require removing the caliper bracket bolts. Others have sliding calipers that can be carefully moved out of the way after piston compression. Support the caliper with a wire or bungee cord to prevent it from dangling by the brake line. Do not let the brake line hang freely or get damaged.
6. Remove the Rotor: The rotor may be held on by caliper bracket bolts (less likely) or it might just slide off. If it's stuck, gently tap around the edge with a rubber mallet. Avoid damaging the rotor's surface.
7. Clean and Inspect: Clean the rotor mounting surface on the axle hub with brake cleaner. Inspect the axle hub, caliper, and caliper bracket for any damage. Replace any worn or damaged components.
8. Install the New Rotor: Slide the new rotor onto the axle hub. It should fit snugly.
9. Reinstall the Caliper: Carefully reinstall the caliper and bracket (if removed), ensuring the brake pads are properly seated. Tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specifications using a torque wrench.
10. Reinstall the Wheel: Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure. Lower the car.
11. Torque Lug Nuts: Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
12. Test Brakes: After reinstalling both wheels, carefully test the brakes to ensure they function correctly. Pump the brake pedal several times, and if there is a noticeable sponginess, it may require bleeding the brakes. It's a good idea to have them checked professionally after the replacement.
Important Considerations:
* Brake Bleeding: If you compress the caliper piston significantly, you might need to bleed the brakes to remove any trapped air. This is a more advanced procedure and may require a helper.
* Caliper Slides: If the caliper slides are stiff or sticky, they may need lubrication or replacement.
* Wear Indicators: Inspect your brake pads while you're at it. Replace them if they are worn below the minimum thickness.
* Professional Help: If you are not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Brake systems are critical safety components.
This guide provides a general overview. Consult a repair manual specific to your 1998 Chevy Lumina for detailed instructions and diagrams. Incorrect installation can lead to brake failure, which is extremely dangerous. Remember safety first!
