Home Mechanic Brake Job For 98 540i?

[LetsPlayPDX]

I have a 1998 540i with 30k milesand the rear brakes need replacing.

I have always done my own brake jobs on my other cars, but wondering if there are special considerations that would keep me from doing this brake job?

I read a couple of posts and it seems that everyone replaces the rotors and does not resurface them based on BMW's recommendation. Why is this?

Any recommendations on where to purchase the parts?

Any recommendations on a good quality service manual?

Ant thing else to look out for?

All help is appreciated, thanks!!

[billB]

Originally posted by LetsPlayPDX@Nov 28 2004, 11:20 PM
I have a 1998 540i with 30k milesand the rear brakes need replacing.

I have always done my own brake jobs on my other cars, but wondering if there are special considerations that would keep me from doing this brake job?

I read a couple of posts and it seems that everyone replaces the rotors and does not resurface them based on BMW's recommendation. Why is this?

Any recommendations on where to purchase the parts?

Any recommendations on a good quality service manual?

Ant thing else to look out for?

All help is appreciated, thanks!!

[snapback]239029[/snapback]

1. I get my parts at the dealer with a good discount. I am sure you can find oem parts on the net for good prices.
2. Most people use the Bent. Manual for service.
3. Anything else to look out for? umm I'll watch out for those little hex screws in the middle of the roters, they strip so easy, change them when bad. 50 cents at the dealer!!
4. The rotors? After cutting them twice (2 brake jobs) I replace them with new. Not a rule just me.

My 2 cents

[njtech]

This job is what we in the industry call gravy. It is well within the grasp of a competent do it yourselfer.

1) the rotors are throw aways they are to thin to be resurfaced, you will get a pulsation.

2) Aside from the factory one, the Bentley manual is by far the best one out there. The e39 version is a little more pricey but worth it.

3) The brand that I use for trouble and noise free operation is ATE or Jurid. If they aren't avilable where you get your parts get the factory stuff.
Nothing out of the ordinary as far as brakes here. If you have any questions email me. HTH

Steve

[nerf26]

here ya go....everthing you ever want to know but were afraid to ask....

http://www.bmwtips.com/tipsntricks/