GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Front Brake Caliper Replacement First Design

Removal Procedure

  1. Inspect the fluid level in the brake master cylinder reservoir.
  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 the vehicle and suitably support. 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. Object Number: 105305  Size: SH
  7. Install a large C-clamp over the body of the brake caliper with the C-clamp ends against the rear of the caliper body and against the outer brake pad.
  8. Tighten the C-clamp until the caliper piston is compressed into the caliper bore enough to allow the caliper to slide past the brake rotor.
  9. Remove the C-clamp from the caliper.

  10. Object Number: 420705  Size: SH
  11. Remove the brake hose to caliper bolt attaching the brake hose to the brake caliper.
  12. Remove and discard the two copper brake hose gaskets. These gaskets may be stuck to the brake caliper and/or the brake hose end.
  13. Plug the opening in the brake caliper and pipe to prevent fluid loss and contamination.

  14. Object Number: 493816  Size: SH
  15. Remove the brake caliper pin bolts (1, 2).
  16. Remove the brake caliper.

Installation Procedure

  1. If reusing the brake caliper pin bolts and retainers, clean the brake caliper pin bolts and retainers using denatured alcohol, or equivalent.
  2. Dry the brake caliper pin bolts and retainers, using non-lubricated, filtered air.
  3. Important: DO NOT apply lubricant to the brake pad hardware.

  4. Apply high temperature silicone brake lubricant to the brake caliper pin bolts and retainers.

  5. Object Number: 105287  Size: SH
  6. Install the brake caliper over the brake pads into the brake caliper bracket.
  7. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.


    Object Number: 493816  Size: SH
  8. Install the brake caliper pin bolts (1, 2).
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the brake caliper pin bolts to 85 N·m (63 lb ft).

    Important: Install NEW copper brake hose gaskets.

  10. Assemble the brake hose bolt and the NEW copper brake hose gaskets to the brake hose.

  11. Object Number: 420705  Size: SH
  12. Install the brake hose to caliper bolt to the brake caliper.
  13. Tighten
    Tighten the brake hose to caliper bolt to 45 N·m (33 lb ft).

  14. Bleed the brake system. Refer to Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding in Hydraulic Brakes.
  15. With the engine OFF, gradually apply the brake pedal to approximately 2/3 of its travel distance.
  16. Slowly release the brake pedal.
  17. Wait 15 seconds, then repeat steps 9-10 until a firm brake pedal is obtained. This will properly seat the brake caliper pistons and brake pads.
  18. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  19. Lower the vehicle.