brake disc removal

[wthramann]

Can anyone tell me what size bolt fits in the brake disc holes to pry the disc off the hub? It is much larger than the flat head screw. Thanks.

[anchovies]

I think it's 12 or 14mm.
Use the brake hose clamp bolts (if I remembered correctly)

[Jareds 89 LX-i]

Yea use the 2 bolts that hold the brake hose to the arm just above the disc. I think they're 10mm, if not then they're 12. Mine were pretty rusty and kinda hard to get those in, but some PB Blaster and not forcing it (turn it in some, then back out, then back in a little farther, back out, etc), and they eventually went in.

[wthramann]

Thanks. I ended up buying new bolts, M8X1.25. Problem now is I cracked the disc trying to pop it off with the bolts. I still do not have the discs off!

[DBMaster]

Did you take out th Phillips head screws first. I am sure you did.

Since we are on the subject how do you get the Phillips head screws out when they are frozon in ther nicely?

Thanks!

[Jareds 89 LX-i]

Originally posted by DBMaster
Since we are on the subject how do you get the Phillips head screws out when they are frozon in ther nicely?

Thanks!
With a big ass drill bit! LOL Hey it worked for me! I also re-tapped the holes so I could put new screws back in, but they're probably not necessary

[dj99]

I drilled a hole in the phillips head screw and then used a screw extractor to get the rest of it out. The key is to make the hole small enough to not hurt the threads underneath. Then I got new screws (get them short) and used anti-seize compound on them.

[anchovies]

Just knock it off with a hammer since you're not reusing it.

[wthramann]

Well I tried to knock it off with a sledge hammer, I tried torching it too. I have soaked it with a penetrant. I am calling a dealer tomorrow for an estimate as I am at my wits end. If I take it off in pieces I am afraid I may not be able to get it all off.

As to the removal of the flathead screws. For 3 out of 4, I was able to use an impact tool with a sledge hammer. For the fourth screw I cut a radial slot with a pry bar and screw driver on the outer edge then hit the screw driver on an angle with a sledge hammer-see the thread How do I remove the flathead screw? Mike included a nice drawing of the technique.

[guaynabo89]

First things first, you will never be able to get the phillips head screws out with a screwdriver.

What I have found to work for me is a ratchet with a big phillips bit. First you take the properly sized phillips bit and hammer it into the screw lightly. Then you take your ratchet turn it while putting pressure towards the rotor.

Its worked everytime for me, except for when the screws are really stripped.

[anchovies]

wow...it's a toughie huh
How about breaking the disk?
Or hitting the studs?

[wthramann]

Aren't the studs screwed into the hub? If not and if I can bang them out I will eliminate the possibility of binding.

[anchovies]

mmm..actually bad idea. The studs for the front is a bitch to replace.

[bambamky]

between a 10mm and 14mm

[Senate SE-i]

It can be done with a Phillips, although I do not recommend it. I stripped the screws and I had to replace them. I thought I might have to drill them out.

[wthramann]

job done. shudder gone and I was able to do the second side in about an hour.