Just got my baby back from MD State Inspection (1st attempt anyway) ;-) ...Found pretty much everything, to be in pretty good order!

Except....

OEM Stock Rotors all around, are UNDER Mfr Spec Minimums

So... Looks like some on-line shopping for a new set of Rotors for me. Reading these forums, I am kinda coming to a concensus that EBC's are the way to go, and right now, I am looking at: EBC Brakes | EBC Brake Pads | EBC Brake Rotors

The pads I am told, all look essentially, brand new (less about the 500 or so miles I've put on 'em) - so my question now is this:

How much of a job is it, for me to try 'n simply "DIY" my swap-out of the old OEM Rotors, with these new? - Any "hidden" considerations about attempting this too, I should probably also take into consideration?

TIA for any possible guidance/insight!

Cheers,
-Grant

 

No reason why not, many of us with S-types have done it . Have a search on the S-type specific forum, ask questions if anything is not clear.

 

There's a good chance any rotor, including stock can get the dreaded warp...

Only tip that's in the FAQ is to hold the parking break button/level down prior to remove the key, that will prevent the parking brake from engaging...

 

Just be careful that you get the correct rotor's for the STR. Many places list Jaguar rotors but the Brembo ones are not so easy to find.

The hardest part for me was the unusual rear parking brake. It has it's own separate caliper and is a bit difficult to release.
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I know this guide is not specific for your car but its pretty similar:

Jaguar HELP!: Changing the front brake pads and rotors on your Jaguar X-type (2001 - 2005)

so that's what you would have to do for the front basically

 

Just changed all disc's and pads on my STR no major problems front caliper mounting bracket bolts can take a bit of leverage to get undone but apart from that pretty straight forward,and good tip about the EPB

 

Here is the fronts.
Brake Job S type R Jaguar Part 1 - YouTube

Part 2:
Brake Job S type R Part 2 - YouTube

I still have to get off my butt and finish the rear brake video so I can get that up. Been crazy busy with school lately though.

 

that's awesome, should be faqed... **hint hint**

 

I just replaced the pads only and on one wheel there is a ring of rust about half an inch wide on the hub side. It has not cleared after about 200 miles. I wonder if it will clear as the pad beds in or if it means the disc (rotor) has worn more on the outer part as it would be going faster.

 

Thommo,

You have a non-R which has very different brakes than in the video above. The condtion you mention is very common and can be caused by the caliper pins being seized inside the caliper and not allowing it to move properly. Best take it apart to be sure.

 

thanks Mikey, I have checked that now and the pins were ok but you set me wondering if the pad could be catching on the caliper so I smoothed the edge and put it back on. Time will tell now, the brakes seem to work ok even with the rust ring.

 

Is there a difference between replacing the front disks on the 2003 STR as compared to a non-R. I have a non-R and most of the forum information is directed toward the STR.
Thanks for any assistance.

 

Yes, there is a difference. Make certain you get new rotors and pads that are appropriate for your non-R. Have your VIN handy, and it never hurts to double or triple-check before ordering or purchasing....

 

Discs (rotors) come in at least 2 sizes. Clean hub thoroughly. I think calipers are slider type so clean & grease as you like. Locking compound on bolts if removed or change for new which I expect come preloaded.

 

Its not as easy for us STR Brembo Brake cars here in Australia to source rotors due to the small market. So we need to import. One local supplier however has a pair for $100US but at that price they have to probably be Chinese. No markings on the box other than 'made to British standards'. Anyone have any experience with these? They dont wet my appetite.
Rimmer Bros have a genuine set for $442US plus postage and another set for 'Made in UK premium G3000 spec Castings, 100% factory run out inspected, Diamond turned or cross ground, Brake zone finish' , whatever all that means for $244US.
Several on fleabay. I would happily buy anything made in USA as well but not sure which ones to look for. Need front and rear. Cheers, John.