So I have a very stuck front right caliper that needs replacing, and I need some advice.

First, how important is it that I replace the pads/rotor as well? The rotor doesn't appear to be warped (no pulsing on the brake pedal) and both the pad and the rotor appear to have plenty of life left.

Second, how important is it to replace the brake line, I've heard they can collapse with heat, is this true? Are there any tricks to replacing the hose?

Third, is there any problem going with the cheapest refurb calipers from Advance?

Lastly, are there any tricks to doing this job? Any suggestions for someone who has never done brake work before? Anyone have a write up for this job?

Thanks,
Sam

 

It's ok to replace the caliper and leave the pads n rotors. If you open the bleeder on the caliper does it loosen up? If it doesn't, your brake hose is probably ok. It's important to apply brake lube of some sort to caliper pins before installing. I'd also clean n lube the bracket where the pads are held. Bleed caliper after installing.

 

Since u have it all apart, wouldn't hurt to change pads. What 40-50$ to replace them

 

10 Gallons of gas.

 

Well since my time is basically worthless, it doesn't matter that much to me if I have to take it apart again, and being on the broke college student budget, every $40-$50 counts. I could buy dinner for 4 months for that!

Also, looking at the pads, they still have quite a bit of life left, and I'm big on, if it ain't broke, dont fix it.

 

See if the rotor has over heated, there will be a blueish color on it. You might not feel it now, but it is coming. When you get the new caliper see if it needs to be primed. A lot of the new ones are not rust protected. If you do end up getting a new rotor take it to be turned. Most of them are close to spec, but still are a little un even. Pull the pad and check for flakes falling off. If there are some you might want to get them replaced.

 

According to the website, it comes rust proofed: http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/web...nco_18340187-p

Looking at the caliper it is still very normal looking, silver with no groves to speak of and no blue or multicolouring that you would expect from a rotor which has overheated.

 

Buy new calipers!

 

As in replace the rusted, siezed up ones, or as in don't use remanufactured ones?

 

They should be fine. Mines worse than that lol.