GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 156335  Size: SH
  1. Inspect the fluid level in the brake master cylinder.
  2. If the brake fluid level is midway between the maximum-full point and the minimum allowable level, no brake fluid needs to be removed from the reservoir before proceeding.
  3. If the brake fluid level is higher than midway between the maximum-full point and the minimum allowable level, remove brake fluid to the midway point before proceeding.
  4. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  5. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  6. Compress the front caliper piston.
  7. 6.1. Install a large C-clamp over the top of the caliper housing and against the back of the outboard pad.
    6.2. Slowly tighten the C-clamp until the piston pushes into the caliper bore enough to slide the caliper off the rotor.
    6.3. Remove the C-clamp from the caliper.

    Notice: Support the brake caliper with heavy mechanic wire, or equivalent, whenever it is separated from its mount and the hydraulic flexible brake hose is still connected. Failure to support the caliper in this manner will cause the flexible brake hose to bear the weight of the caliper, which may cause damage to the brake hose and in turn may cause a brake fluid leak.

  8. Remove the caliper from the mounting bracket and support the caliper with heavy mechanic's wire or equivalent. DO NOT disconnect the hydraulic brake flexible hose from the caliper. Refer to Front Brake Caliper Replacement .

  9. Object Number: 156330  Size: SH
  10. Remove the inboard lining.
  11. Remove the outboard lining.
  12. Inspect the following parts for cuts, tears, or deterioration. Replace any damaged parts:
  13. • The disc brake mounting and hardware. Refer to Rear Disc Brake Mounting and Hardware Inspection in Disc Brakes.
    • The caliper dust boot. Refer to Brake Caliper Inspection .
  14. Inspect the caliper assembly for signs of fluid leakage. If any leakage is detected refer to Rear Brake Caliper Overhaul in Disc Brakes.
  15. Use a wire brush to remove any corrosion from the machined surfaces of the steering knuckle and the caliper.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 728143  Size: SH
  1. Using a C-clamp (1), bottom the piston into the caliper bore (3). Use an old brake pad (2) or wooden block placed across the face of the piston. Do not damage the piston or the caliper boot.
  2. Lubricate the caliper and the steering knuckle, or support, sliding surfaces and the spring with high temperature silicone brake lubricant.

  3. Object Number: 156338  Size: SH
  4. Place the new pad in a vise.

  5. Object Number: 156341  Size: SH
  6. Compress the vise as needed to obtain a secure fit between the outer brake pad and the caliper.

  7. Object Number: 156343  Size: SH
  8. Install the outer brake pad (3) onto the caliper (1).
  9. • If it is necessary use a C-clamp to install the pad onto the caliper.
    • Do not allow the C-clamp to come into contact with the lining.
    • Insert a used brake pad between the C-clamp and the new brake lining.

    Object Number: 156344  Size: SH
  10. File the leading edge of the brake pad tang to aid in the installation of the brake pad to the caliper.
  11. Install the caliper. Refer to Rear Brake Caliper Replacement in Disc Brakes.
  12. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  13. Lower the vehicle.
  14. With the engine OFF, gradually apply the brake pedal approximately 2/3 of its travel distance.
  15. Slowly release the brake pedal.
  16. Wait 15 seconds, then repeat steps 10-11 until a firm brake pedal is obtained. This will properly seat the brake caliper pistons and brake pads.
  17. Fill the brake master cylinder to the proper level. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling in Hydraulic Brakes.
  18. Burnish the pads and rotors. Refer to Brake Pad and Rotor Burnishing .