Pontiac Repair: changing rotors and pads, noise problems, caliper


Question
I bought pads and rotors for my 95 Grand Am. I am wanting to try and change them myself(the front brakes). Just want a quick walk through of the process,diagram of the housing, whatever you recommend. Tools needed.  

Answer
Best piece of advice is to do only one side at a time so you can look at the other side for a reference. Tools needed aren't that expensive, a metric wrench set, a ratchet with a t50 torx socket or 3/8 allen socket, and a big "c" clamp. Once you remove the wheel take the caliper off by removing the two bolts holding it in place. They should be either the torx or allen head. After pulling off the caliper use the c clamp to compress the piston back into the bore of the caliper. Then remove the two bolts holding the caliper bracket in place. The rotor will now just pull off, sometimes they need a little persuasion with a hammer though. Now use some brake parts cleaner to clean up the new rotors and then reverse the process to reinstall the brakes. When you put the pads into the bracket use some anti squeal (available at the parts store) on the back sides (away from the rotor) to help prevent noise problems. Now just be easy on the new ones for about 200 miles.