I have an 04 ecotech, and I'm getting ready to replace the front pads and rotors, I know the caliper has 2 hex head bolts, I wanted to know if anyone knew the size tool I need to remove the caliper, and the mount to replace the rotors, any info would be a great help and time saver, Thanks.
Umm...I think it is a 3/8" hex. Go to Auto Zone and you can by it for $4 or $5. It is called the GM Caluper Socket or something like that.
I just replaced mine this weekend.
Its just a big allen key
You can get a set of different sizes for $5.
Thanks guys, do you know if the mounting bracket takes the same tool?
The caliper is held on by two hex headed shoulder bolts. That is all you need to remove tghe caliber. Except for the lug nuts of course.
I thought the caliper was attached to a mounting bracket that sits over the rotor, that had to come off to slide the rotor off, wasnt sure though.
Yes, that is correct.
1) Remove caliper
2) Remove rotor
Ok, I got it, I was thinkin they were seperate pieces, my grand prix you had 2 bolts to remove the caliper, and 2 bolts to remove it's mounting bracket over the rotor, so you had to remove both. Thanks again for the help.
An allen socket works better than a regular allen wrench. 3/8" is the size you need. I use a C-clamp to push the piston back into the caliper. I also loosen the bleeder screw as I have heard it's not a good idea to force brake fluid back into the ABS.
God bless America.
Loosing the bleeder screw because it is not a good idea to force the brake fluid into the ABS??? I have completed many front brake jobs on my 99 Z24 with 155 K miles and have not had any ABS problems by C-clamping the calibre and returning the brake fluid to the master cylinder (the traditional way). I wouldn't be concerned about it.
