Ok, you can always turn to your trusted mechanic to change the brake pads but it is better to know the dynamics behind this procedure, also to understand the wear of the pads and not find yourself changing them too late. Iron on iron braking is not pleasant, both for us and for the discs themselves. When to change disc brake pads? Here is the article for you. If you are sure that it is time to make the change, continue reading this article.
1. DISASSEMBLY OF THE CALIPER
The pads are inside the caliper (see photo) which we find or on the fork (front brake) and on the chainstay of the bike (rear brake). The caliper is fixed to the fork, or to the rear end, with 2 screws (Allen or Torx). At this point, the caliper is distanced from the disc so that the pads can then be removed (see point 2).
HOW TO BLEED A SRAM SYSTEM
2. REPLACING THE PADS
It is necessary to unscrew the transversal screw (or smooth out the staple) which blocks the spring on which the pads are installed. This screw may have a safety Seeger ring which can also be removed by hand. Once this life has been removed, the pads are easily removable.
3. PISTONS MAINTENANCE
Before proceeding with the installation of the new pads (with relative spring) we must go and bring the pistons back into place: it may be that they have come out due to the pads which have gradually worn out. CAUTION: DO NOT RETURN THE PISTONS FORCE WITH THE SCREWDRIVER (SEE EXPLANATORY VIDEO). While we're at it, cleaning the pistons doesn't hurt: you can use isopropyl alcohol, but for a faster and more effective job, there are ad hoc products (brake cleaners). After this application, dry and thoroughly clean the inside of the caliper with workshop paper or cotton swabs.
HOW TO BLEED A SHIMANO SYSTEM
4. INSERTING THE NEW PADS
Assembly inside the caliper is simple: the two wings of the spring are compressed by hand and the whole is inserted into the caliper. To stop the spring and calipers, the transversal screw (or staple) which passes through both the caliper and the end of the pads is reinserted. If present, the safety Seeger ring is also inserted.
WHICH PADS TO CHOOSE? ORGANIC OR METALLIC?
5. REFITTING THE CALIPER AND CENTERING THE DISC
Now the caliper is reassembled by aiming the 2 screws that fix the caliper to the fork or to the rear. Before final tightening, hold the brakes so that the brake self-centers on the disc. Still holding the brakes, let's go and tighten the screws. If the brake should not be centered after this operation, loosen the screws manually with micro adjustments.
The 5 MTB maintenance you need to know how to do – TUTORIAL
