Hi all,

Is there any trick to removing the brake rotors? I am anticipating the need for some persuation with a rubber mallet or dead blow hammer, but want to be prepared before I start my pad/rotor replacement project.

Thanks!

Dave

 

Just remove the torx head screw holding it on and it should come right off.

 

otherwise it's a dead end.....

And some persuation may be needed.

Matt

 

Generally all you need is the soft mallet to knock the inevitably rust-stuck rotor from the hub in addition to the Torx bit needed to remove the single rotor retaining screw.

In addition to removing the calipers, on the front you will need to remove the caliper adaptors to gain clearance to remove the rotors. In fact, you need only remove the lower bolt, loosen the upper and swing the adaptor up to get the rotor off the hub.

Remember, you will need a caliper piston retracting tool if you are replacing the rear rotors and/or pads. A simple c-clamp works for the front.

 

I usually leave one or two of the wheel bolts on loosely so the rotor doesn't hit your foot when it all of a sudden falls off. Sometimes the hardest part is getting the screw out. Also, don't forget to release the parking brake when doing the rears.

 

Be sure not to strip the head of the torx screw. I did on mine and it was a pain getting it out. Use something like PowerBlaster or WD40 on the screw and let it soak in before attempting to remove...it should make it easier. Push in with the torx bit while trying to unscrew it, otherwise the torx bit will walk its way out of the recesses and mar the screw.

 

Is the torx a special size? I have the usual homeowners set (which is, er, at home so I can't check the size range right now), but in the picture Partsman109 supplied it looks like it might be a larger size.

Great advice from everyone by the way...Thanks!

 

I think it's a T45 or T50.
An impact driver works good for this screw.

 

Felt with a T45 last night and it was a little loose. T50 was perfect, on my '05

 

I'm glad my search found this thread. For some reason the Bentley Manual doesn't provide a clue as to the bit size needed for the rotor Torx -- just gives the torque recommendation.

T50 purchased. Calamity avoided.

 

first get a tork driver like the doc said. next get a big hammer (not rubber) and a 1/2 inch rod (half inch driver extintion will work). place 1/2 rod on top of flat head tork screw and smack it hard with the hammer. this will help you get it out.

 

I've used an impact driver to good effect. Also before putting the torx back in give it a kiss with some anti-seize. That will make things much easier the next time you have to remove it.