mx5cartalk.com

So I have some new brake parts on their way including front slotted rotors, new pads and braided brake lines. I am reasonably capable with a spanner and have replaced rotors and pads on previous cars but have never done the brake lines before. Now of course I can take my car to a mechanic and simply pay for the work to be done but how am I going to learn that way.

I am after any advice, technical guides or possibly help from another forum member who is willing to share their knowledge with me (I will supply food and beverages of course).

Thanks
Angus

Where are you located maxgus?

Suppose I should mention the I am in Brisbane.

Ok I have researched and should not be an issue. I was a little concerned about bleeding the abs system but apparently not as hard as made out to be.

I'm not sure what model MX5 you have but first up before you disconnect the old lines either note or photograph the position of the lines as the come off the caliper. Also see how they attach to the suspension arm. Up or down from the bolt on the wishbone. After that remove and replace.
For the ABS and system bleeding, turn your ignition on and then bleed.

Look into getting a 10mm brake pipe spanner.
Its a heavy duty ring spanner with an open end.
They make undoing the pipes easier and stop any chance of rounding off the nuts

Thanks guys. These are two suggestions I came across and will be carrying out.

I would have thought the workshop manual would have some info on this and CB advice looks important- I was not aware that you need to have the ignition on to do a brake bleed.

Don't have a workshop manual but probably should get one. Usually can find everything you need on the world wide web.

Mr Morlock wrote:I would have thought the workshop manual would have some info on this and CB advice looks important- I was not aware that you need to have the ignition on to do a brake bleed.

You have the ignition on to open the valves in the ABS.
If you don't have ABS don't worry about doing this.

Thanks for all the responses. The gear has turned up and hopefully will get the time to install this week.

Just wanted to add that I ordered through brakes direct and they were awesome! They were extremely helpful, friendly and knowledgable! I can't recommend enough!

maxgus wrote:... help from another forum member who is willing to share their knowledge with me

I really think you were on the right track when you asked for help up front.

Brake hydraulics are the big area where you shouldn't go blind the first time you work on them. They're reasonably simple but the consequences of getting it wrong are too serious. You should have an experienced mechanic there to guide you through the standard techniques of working with them. It's basic stuff you won't get from the internet. You need to have it demonstrated first hand, to be coached and to have your worked checked before driving. It doesn't need to be an MX5 specialist, just someone who knows brakes.

Thanks for the concern manga. I installed the gear today. Bled the brakes properly and bedded the pads with the help of a mate. Everything went as expected and the brakes feel great.