Brake Pad Problems

Hi guys… have a problem and I am after help.

I am trying to change the front brake pads on my ’69 911T but cannot get the new pads into the callipers, they appear to be too wide (after pushing in the pistons) and I am wondering whether the dealer has sold me the wrong part. The part no. on the pad is 911.352.940.04 and if one of you has a moment I would really appreciate if the part no. could be checked.

If I am simply missing something in the installation process any comments would be most welcome.

Thanks in advance. Regards,

P.S Just occurred to me to note that these brakes are the unventilated variety.

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Paul
911T'69

[This message has been edited by Paul W (edited 01-04-2001).]

Paul,

I couldn't find that part number anywhere .. my Stoddard catalog doesn't show anything for the solid-disk '69 model!

This is going to sound a bit off-the-wall, but could you measure the width of the new pads, the old ones you took out, and also one of the rear pads? What I suspect is that your new pads are approximately 62 mm wide, and that your old front pads are approximately 56 mm wide, hence the fit problem. If your rear pads are 62 mm, then I have a possible explanation!

If your front pads are 56 mm wide, and your rear pads are 62 mm wide, then your front ('L' type calipers) and rear('M' type) calipers have been reversed at some point in the past! If that is true, then you need to put them back as intended!

I hope this helps. Good luck!


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Warren Hall
1973 911S Targa

There are 2 types of calipers for the 1969 models --- the s and the M (no comments)
M= 911.352.950.02
S= 911.351.950.03

It apppears you have the wrong Pads , maybe they are rears? Double check with the seller.
Goood Luck

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Bob
1982 911SC Targa

There are 2 types of calipers and pads for the 1969 models --- the s and the M (no comments)
M= 911.352.950.02
S= 911.351.950.03

It apppears you have the wrong Pads , maybe they are rears? Double check with the seller.
Goood Luck

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Bob
1982 911SC Targa

Oh, I love it. Sometimes, someone will have so much experience and knowledge, and reasoning skills, that they can solve a very odd and perplexing problem from thousands of miles away, with just basic information.

For me, you're better than going to the movies, Warren.

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'83 SC

Warren and Bob - Thanks for the replies. Warren I don't know whether I made it clear but the problem is that the pads will not fit between the rotor and the piston of the calliper. It doesn't look like even starting to clear the piston boot. I put the pads back to back and they appear to have similar foot prints (the newer ones with a portion carved out on the side between the retaining pin eyes).

Anyway, your feedback has me thinking wrong parts and justifies a trip back to the dealer.

Regards,


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Paul
911T'69

Paul,

OK, I understand the problem now! I don't think you need new/different pads, yet!

Try siphoning off almost all of the brake fluid in your reservoir, then try prying between the rotor and pistons on each side with a large flat-bladed screwdriver ... very slowly, not abruptly! The pistons should retract into the caliper without a real problem, unless there is significant rust or dirt build-up. There is enough clearance for quite a bit of variation in pad thickness, including a layer of noise abatement/isolation material!

After you have replaced the pads, but before driving or appying foot pressure to the brake pedal, siphon off as much old brake fluid as possible, then replace it with new fluid, and pump the brake pedal slowly, several (20-40) times to take up the slack/gap between pads and pistons in the calipers, then top-up the brake fluid level again. Your car should now be ready for the first test drive!

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Warren Hall
1973 911S Targa

Warren - followed your advice, and as expected, you picked it. Obviously I did not retract the pistons in the callipers far enough. Thanks once again for the clear and concise instructions. Now for the test drive…

Regards,

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Paul
911T'69