I havn't really done much work on my car (2 oil changes and work on the stereo), but what I have done was incredibly fun. I've got a helms manual coming in the mail soon, and my brake pads will need to be changed as well... should I put the two together and do it myself? Sounds awesome, and I'd love to get the experience under my belt, but don't wanna mess anything up. Any advice?

Also, where could I get the right parts (or needed tools)?

I'm sure the manual will help.

Good day all!

 

Brake pads will be an easy project to "get your feet wet" as far as car work goes. You won't need anything more than the Helms and some hand tools. Some anti-sieze for the back of the pads won't hurt either (helps reduce squeaks). Have a bungy cord ready to hold up the calipers to keep weight off the lines.

 

Thanks.
I've heard things about needing a C-clamp. Who's that guy?

 

a C-clamp is a basic tool that is usually used to clamp things down. for brakes, however, it is used to return the caliper piston to it's original position. Brake pads are easy and quick. If you are changing or resurfacing the rotors, you will need an impact driver, which is a screwdriver that you hit with a hammer to loosen the screws holding the rotors in place. sometimes, the rotor binds to the hub, and you need a screw of the appropriate size-pitch to work it loose. I forget what those dimensions are, though so, look around.

other than those things and a good jack and jackstands, you're ready to go.

also note that the rear caliper pistons do not return like the fronts do, for the rears you can use either a very BIG flathead screwdriver to insert into the slots, and rotate them back into position, or a "caliper tool". I just use a screwdriver. oh and don't press the brake pedal with the calipers loose.

 

the front rotors can be tapped with a hammer from behind to loosen them from the hub. but yes an impact screwdriver (bought mine used) is the ultimate tool for honda brakes, works on first try every single time for me.

the rear calipers can be "turned" back in with a $4 "Lisle" tool sold at autobarn, it is a cube shaped tool with several different peg designs on it to fit a variety of calipers.

~kris

 

Sounds good! seeing as i'm goanna do the fronts this time, I probably wont need a caliper tool to rotate them back. Where should a get OEM pads, though? Do you think its worth it to upgrade brake pads? I hope that dosnt effect what class you're in, in autocross. Thank for all this help.

 

yes u should upgrade the pads if u can afford it.
Hawk HP+ is the best choice. More initial bite and much better heat control over stock.
i have slotted rotors also, which helps eliminate brake fade since it cleans the pads when the get glazed over (what causes fade).
if i were u go for the Hawk HP+, under $100 for the front set. and WELL worth it.

a lot of people dont think the AEM or Axxis pads are worth it, including myself, since i didnt see any difference, just less dust.

~kris

 

Wonderful, thank you kris! Do you think these new pads will last as long as OEM ones? I'll look into that autocross thing too.

 

this will depend on your driving habits.
i drive excessively so dont compare yourself to me, i change my brake pads every 6 months and rotors every spring. I also put 39,000 miles on my car last year, so u can see my point.

The pads will not last as long as OEM if u change your rotors like me, for obvious reasons.

edit: and i consistently change my oil with Mobil 1 Full Synthetic 10W30 every 28 days on average.

~kris

 

28 days??? Well done! (I guess)! THat's amazing! Well I'll just assume they last ABOUT the same amount of time, and that the extra performance will be well worth the effort/money or whatever. Sounds fun. I hope they arn't too expensive hah