Inspection Procedure
Important: The brake pads must have freedom of movement within the brake caliper
bracket. If movement is restricted by debris or rust, the brake pads may remain
against the rotor after the brake pedal is released. This condition may contribute
to the following conditions:
• | Accelerated brake pad wear |
- Remove and discard 2/3 of the brake fluid from the master
cylinder.
- Raise the vehicle. Refer to
Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle
in General Information.
- Remove the tire and wheel.
Refer to
Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation
in Tires and Wheels.
- Install a C-clamp over
the top of the brake caliper and against the back of the outboard brake pad.
- Tighten the C-clamp in order to push the brake caliper piston
into the brake caliper bore as far as possible.
- Remove the C-clamp from the brake caliper.
Important: The brake pad should move easily within the brake caliper bracket.
- Inspect the outer brake pad for freedom of movement relative to the
brake caliper bracket.
Important: The brake caliper should move easily within the brake caliper bracket.
- Use your hands in order
to push the brake caliper inboard as far as possible. If the brake caliper
does not move easily, perform the following steps.
• | Inspect and replace any worn or damaged brake caliper bolts (1). |
• | Inspect and replace any worn or damaged brake caliper bushings (2). |
Important: The brake pad should move easily within the brake caliper bracket.
- Inspect the inner brake pad for freedom of movement relative to the
brake caliper bracket.
• | If brake pad movement is restricted for either brake pad, go to
the Cleaning Procedure. |
• | If brake pad movement is not restricted for either brake pad,
go to the Installation Procedure. |
Cleaning Procedure
- Remove the brake pads
from the brake caliper (2). Refer to
Brake Pads Replacement
- Use a wire brush in order to clean away any rust and debris from
the brake caliper and knuckle where the brake pads contact.
- Apply a thin coat of silicone grease (GM P/N 18010909 or
equivalent) to the brake caliper and knuckle where the brake pads come in
contact.
- Perform the Inspection Procedure for the opposite side brake caliper.
Installation Procedure
- Install the tire and wheel.
Refer to
Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation
in Tires and Wheels.
- Perform the Inspection Procedure for the opposite side brake caliper.
- Lower the vehicle.
- Fill the master cylinder
to the proper level with new clean brake fluid. Refer to
Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling
in Hydraulic Brakes.
- Pump the brake pedal (3/4 of a full stroke) as many times
as necessary in order to obtain a firm brake pedal.