- Car jack and jack stands
- Socket set
- C-clamp
- Wire brush
- Brake cleaner
- New brake pads
- High-temperature brake grease
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Preparatory Work
- Park your Vauxhall Combo van on a flat, stable surface and apply the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels but don't remove them completely.
2. Lifting the Vehicle
- Place the car jack under the vehicle frame, ensuring it's stable and secure.
- Raise the van until it's high enough for you to work comfortably.
- Place the jack stands under the vehicle for additional support.
3. Wheel Removal
- Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheels. Set them aside.
4.Brake Caliper Removal
- Locate the brake caliper, which holds the brake pads in place.
- Using a socket wrench, remove the bolts that secure the caliper to the brake disc or hub.
- Gently lift the caliper off the brake disc, taking care not to damage the brake lines.
- Hang the caliper securely out of the way, using a piece of wire to avoid straining the brake line.
5. Brake Pad Inspection and Removal
- Inspect the old brake pads for wear and tear. If they are worn down to the wear indicators or are damaged, they need to be replaced.
- Using a C-clamp, compress the brake caliper piston back into its housing to make room for the new brake pads.
- This may require some force, so do it slowly and carefully.
6. Clean and Prep the Brake Caliper
- Use a wire brush to clean the brake caliper and the area where the brake pads sit.
- Remove any dirt, rust, or debris.
- This will help ensure proper brake function.
7. Apply Brake Grease
- Apply a thin layer of high-temperature brake grease to the backs of the new brake pads.
- This will help reduce noise and improve braking performance.
8. Install New Brake Pads
- Place the new brake pads into the caliper.
- Make sure they are properly seated and aligned.
9. Reattach the Brake Caliper
- Carefully lift the brake caliper back over the brake disc or hub.
- Reinstall the bolts that secure the caliper and tighten them securely.
10. Wheel Installation
- Reattach the wheels to the lug nuts and hand-tighten them.
- Lower the van using the car jack and remove the jack stands.
- Tighten the lug nuts with a torque wrench to the manufacturer's specifications.
11. Test the Brakes
- Gently press the brake pedal a few times to ensure that the brakes are functioning properly.
- Take the van for a short, slow test drive to further test the brakes.
