Note: I posted this over on the "step by step guide to replacing rotors and pads" topic on another forum, ( the XJ, XJ8/XJR (X308) ), but it really belong here on the XK8 / XKR (X100) forum


I just finished a self-congratulatory Anchor Steam beer after successfully replacing the pads and rotors on my '02 XKR, and have a few observations about the process.

1). At least on my car, the caliper pin bolts have the 7mm allen heads, not the torx as some cars are described as having. Be sure to double check this before applying any muscle. Ruining the bolt head by using the wrong tool could make this job very nasty.

2) Buy two cans of CRC Freeze-Off. it's superior to most other penetrants. Applied to the 17mm caliper bolt head and surrounding area it does a very good job of both penetrating and freezing. The freeze action will help loosen the threads, where regular penetrating products often fail. You do have to use a lot of it, and give the bolt head a few straight on whacks with a 4 lb mini sledge between sprays. Don't use this product without good ventilation. The fumes will kill a cockroach, and we know how tough they are , rumored to withstand small atomic bombs, etc.

you can buy that product at most local auto parts stores, or on Amazon


3) The CRC Freeze-Off is also invaluable in getting a stubborn rotor to come loose. Just stray it liberally at the base of all the studs, and the rotor comes off A LOT easier, and that's with the stock (original looking) rotors, which were not budging without the Freeze-Off. The Brembo rotors would benefit just as much, as I'm reading they are even harder to remove.

i used the ebc red stuff pads, as I'm very familiar with that compound having used them on numerous vintage Shelby's and other vintage high performance Fords. Low dust, excellent bite that doesn't need an extensive warm up to be effective. Also very easy on rotors, imho.

Z.

 

For members on the right hand side of the Atlantic, CRC Freeze-Off is also available from Amazon UK .....



58.43 UKP = $82.52

Another US product we can't get our hands on over here without a second mortgage. I've been trying to find KANO Kroil at less than the cost of a new front upper wishbone for years.

Graham