I've done a search and can't find any pics for a diy of installing brake pads on my xB. I keep hearing something about having to use a C-clamp but no one is really specific on what it is for. Any help is appreciatted.

 

from my experiencesd on another vehicles, i assume you use the c-clamp on the caliper, to close it so you are able to remove the tension of the rotor (so you are able to pull the pads out..

 

WELL THE C CLAMP IS USED TO PUCH BACK THE CALIPER PISTON ONCE YOU REPLACE WITH NEW PADS
ALL YOU NEED FOR REMOVING THE CALIPER IS A 14MM & 9/16 CAUSE IT HAS A NUT ON THE OTHER END SO YOU NEED TO HOLD IT AND THEN LOOSEN IR IT WILL FEEL LIKE IT LOOSEN BUT ALL IT WILL DO IS SPIN AND IF YOU ARE TAKING OUT THE ROTOR YOU WILL NEED A 17MM TO REMOVE THE CALIPER BRAKET HOPE THIS INFO HELPS

 

The C-Clamp is used to compress the piston on your brake
calipers, assuming you are working on the disc brakes in the
front.

 

Well you see, the old pads are worn and are thiner then the new ones. By using a clamp you push back the piston so the new pads will fit. Its simple to do just pads, its just 2 bolts, and the pads clip in and out.

Note: this was on a 2006 xB. I dont think the other 1g xBs are different.

 

Thanks fellas i appreciate the help

 

Also, It's better if you use one of the old pads turned around as a pressure point when compressing the piston. You don't want to warp the piston or you will have it stick and wear out those new pads prematurely. Also, Loosen the master cyl. cap when compressing the calipers and keep an eye on the fluid level. If fluid has been added since new you may need to remove some before changing the pads. Otherwise it will make a mess and brake fluid eats paint.
It's a good idea to replace the rotors also. Mostly because they are so thin and if you have them turned they will be even more thin and warp faster.
Never just install new pads on worn/ shiney rotors. The pads will not break in properly which will shorten their life and not give full breaking performance. New rotors are cheap insurance against having to redo the brakes till it's time.

 

thats a good point about using an old pad to compress the piston. When i did the pads on our xB project the rotor wasn't really worn at all. I left the old rotor on. Its getting stored over the winter so it'll rust so I'm putting performance pads and rotors on it in the spring anyways.

 

Anyone have any pics on how to remove the caliper using the 14mm and 9/16? any nfo would be great.

 

Check the service manual link in my signature.

 

ok