E46 brake job DIY?

[Plaz]

Okay, so I know this is an easy thing to do, but have never done it myself.

I need new pads again (already! Less than a year since the last set), and am out of service/warrantee, so this will be my first opportunity.

Any links to a good step-by-step DIY for the E46?

Also, any preferred vendors for Axxis pads?

Will I need to buy new pad sensors, too?

[zach]

Originally Posted by Plaz

Okay, so I know this is an easy thing to do, but have never done it myself.

I need new pads again (already! Less than a year since the last set), and am out of service/warrantee, so this will be my first opportunity.

Any links to a good step-by-step DIY for the E46?

Also, any preferred vendors for Axxis pads?

Will I need to buy new pad sensors, too?

This thread has links to a few. I used it to change the pads on my mom's X5.

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=40523

Get pads from Zeckhausen.

You won't need sensors unless the dash light is on.

[Roadstergal]

Eurasian is the cheapest... you can get ATE fluid there, too.

You could use the E46 M3 DIY over at the 'Fest to change E30 pads. That's one system that hasn't changed much.

[Plaz]

Originally Posted by zcasavant

You won't need sensors unless the dash light is on.

Unfortunately, it is.

Thanks for the pointers.

[zach]

Originally Posted by Plaz

Unfortunately, it is.

Thanks for the pointers.

Make sure you have some sort of clamp to pry the caliper open.

[Plaz]

Just looked at the referenced threads...

Holy crap, that's simple.

Thanks again.

Do I need to buy some assorted C-clamps, or will I be able to get away with using a large Vise-grip?

[zach]

Originally Posted by Plaz

Just looked at the referenced threads...

Holy crap, that's simple.

Thanks again.

Do I need to buy some assorted C-clamps, or will I be able to get away with using a large Vise-grip?

I don't think they make a vise-grip that's big enough. Not 100% sure.

I used one large clamp.

[zach]

Originally Posted by Plaz

Just looked at the referenced threads...

Holy crap, that's simple.

Thanks again.

Do I need to buy some assorted C-clamps, or will I be able to get away with using a large Vise-grip?

Oh, and another thing, OPEN YOUR BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR before you start. Also, if it's full, opening the calipers will cause overflow. Be prepared for that.

[SteveM]

You could probably find a vise grip designed for welding that would be big enough to squish a piston into a caliper, but it's far simpler to use a C-clamp. I haven't changed pads on the BMW yet, but have done countless other cars. It is sometimes easier to use the old brake pad on the piston so the C-clamp doesn't have to go into the hollow part of the piston.

I used to use a turkey blaster to suck out some brake fluid prior to pushing the pistons back. A hand pump Mityvac works well too (the small ones for brake bleeding).

[FC]

Originally Posted by SteveM

It is sometimes easier to use the old brake pad on the piston so the C-clamp doesn't have to go into the hollow part of the piston.

...suck out some brake fluid prior to pushing the pistons back.

That is what I did when replacing the brakes on my 190E.