changing brake pads

[uberdrah]

Just a quick question, could some one please tell what size allen key i need to change my front brake pads?

Cheers Rich

[ollielsd]

hmmmmm 7mm i think - dont take that as gospel tho!!

someone will be along with a dfinitive answer

[Jamesb318is]

7mm is correct. 100%

[Adammcf]

Id get some hex or torx sockets though and use them instead as an allen key will probably bend or snap from what Ive experienced in the past.

[Chris-W]

Better yet, a 7mm brake key. If you're going to do it more than once, it's a worthwhile investment!

[stonesie]

best tool for them is a 7mm allen bit for a 3/8'' ratchet

i have a brake key but find it has a bit too much flex in it for my likeing,, keep thinking it is going to snap

[dark_sounds]

once one has got the old brakes off,, how do i get the new brakes on? they dont seem to fit cos they are bigger, how do i make it wide enough to fit??

sorry for thread hi jack though im doing the same today

[Chris-W]

Use a G clamp to compress the piston right back.

[oze30]

just make sure you use an old pad against the piston ie: as it was before you changed pads. This stops the clamp from chewing out the metal of the piston as it tightens, AND of making it less work to wind in and out (I'm lazy.. So what??)

[Brianmoooore]

It's good practice to open the bleed nipple and let the excess fluid out when you push the pistons back, rather than forcing dirty fluid back the line and risking damaging m/cylinder and ABS unit.
After changing the pads, make sure you pump the brake pedal before moving off in the car. You wouldn't be the first person to find that the pedal goes straight to the floor the first time ypu need the brakes.