Front Brake Pads: Installation

1999 GMC Forward Control 5.7 R, AutomaticSECTION Installation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Using a C-clamp, bottom the piston into the caliper bore. Use an old brake pad or wooden block across the face of the piston. DO NOT damage the piston or the caliper boot.
  2. Install the 2 retainers to the caliper bracket.
    NOTE: The wear sensor is on the outside pad. The sensor is positioned at the leading or upward edge of the pad during forward wheel rotation.
  3. Install the pads to the caliper anchor bracket. Use care to avoid damaging pin boot when rotating caliper.
  4. Remove the support and reposition the caliper back down over the front pads.
  5. Lubricate the pin bolt and the inner diameter of the bolt boot with GM P/N 18047666, or equivalent. DO NOT lubricate the threads of the pin bolt.
  6. Install the lower caliper bolt. Tighten the brake caliper bolts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONSΒ  .
  7. Remove the 2 wheel lug nuts retaining the rotor to the hub.
  8. Install the tire and the wheel assembly. Tighten wheel lug nuts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONSΒ  .
  9. Lower the vehicle.
  10. With the engine off, gradually apply the brake pedal to approximately 2/3 of its travel distance.
  11. Slowly release the brake pedal.
  12. Wait 15 seconds, then repeat steps Β 10 and Β 11 until a firm brake pedal is obtained. This will properly seat the brake caliper pistons and brake pads.
  13. Fill the brake master cylinder reservoir to the proper level. See MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR FILLINGΒ  under BLEEDING BRAKE SYSTEM.
  14. Burnish the pads and rotors. See BURNISHING PADS & ROTORSΒ  under SERVICING.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.