Re: rotors

["Brian M. Potter" <tonedeaf@earthlink.net>]

I.Mannix wrote:
> 
> >Hello to all:
> >This is my first time posting to the list. I'm very new at working on
> >cars so please bear with me.
> >I just got an 88 Scirocco 16V and I've decided to upgrade the rotors to
> >cross drilled Brembos 10.1".  I was wondering if it is possible to
> >remove the caliper from the rotor without having to disconnect the brake
> >line?  And also if you can replace the brake pads as well?
> 
> Disconnecting the brake line from the caliper to change rotors is not
> necessary.  Just remove the bolts holding the caliper to the carrier, hang
> the caliper from the spring or something, R&R rotor, put caliper back on.
> Simple.
> 
> >
> >The Rapid Parts tech video shows them disconnecting the brake lines and
> >bleeding them, but the Bentley book doesn't mention disconnecting the
> >line.  Bentley recommends suspending the caliper with a strong wire as
> >to not stretch the hose while changing the rotors.
> 
> Right.
> 
> >What should I do?
> 
> Save your money and get Ferodo pads, IMHO.
> 
> >Should I bleed all four calipers to be safe?
> 
> Not a bad idea, but not necessary if the fluid is recent - there is no good
> reason to bleed *because* of a rotor change, but if it has not been done in
> a while (more than a year), it is a good idea, just for preventative
> maintenance.
> 
> >Or is this job easily done without having to disconnect the lines.
> 
> Yes, be careful not to strip the screw that holds the rotor on the hub.
> Easy enough to drill out if you do.  BTW, that screw is not needed - I hate
> them, because they often won't come out.  They sometimes make wheel changes
> a bit of a pain, because without them the rotor can turn while you are
> putting the wheel on.  If you decide to reuse them, use antisieze.
> 
> >
> >Thanks in advance,
> >Brian
> >
> >P.S. Does anyone have the Brembo rotors?  How do you like them?
> 
> Brembo are of good quality, so cracking should'nt be a problem.
> Drilled(cheap) rotors are known to crack.  I don't know about the Brembos,
> if I were to get some, I'd look to them first.   IMHO, if you are
> experiencing brake fade, try Ferodo pads and Castrol GTLMA fluid first - I
> use this on my autocross car, stock 84 GTI brakes otherwise, no fade, good
> pedal, plenty of power.  I was impressed with this combination, and at
> Trials events in particular, the fade I used to have to drive around is
> gone.  I have no desire/perceived need to do anything to my brakes.  9.4"
> vented rotors.
> 
> If it is the look you're after, go for it.  If your fluid is watery,
> braking will not improve significantly, it will simply boil later;).
> Dunno, I just think there are better ways to spend money for performance.
> IMHO, YMMV, etc.  Best of luck!
> 
> Mannix
> 
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Mannix, Thanks a lot for the info.  It was indeed helpful and it saved
me when that rotor screw did strip just like you said.  I feel pretty
good now because I've never worked on a car before and the job is
complete without any major problems.  Can't wait to start another
project.  Thanks Again!

Brian
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