Brake Replacement

[Runnin'On]

The brake pad sensor in my 1984 944 is on, so I am getting ready to replace the pads. I was wondering if there is anything I should watch out for. I have changed disc brakes before, but not on a Porsche. I plan to change out the brake fluid (Super Blue). I've heard I should not bleed the lines by pumping the brake. Is that true? I use the car in the summer, not for any racing. Any recommendations on brake pads? I have heard mixed reviews on the cross drilled rotors. Any thoughts? I will also replace the sensor.

Any helpful advice will be appreciated!

[SoCal Driver]

Pads, sensor and fluid with a power bleeder and be on your way. Most rotors don't need to be replaced unless you've let the pads go to the metal and the metal has cut really deep grooves in the rotors.

[ae1969]

SOcal what are you using as a power bleeder......

I have always been doing the pump and hold routine.... works... but novelty is wearing off.

I am changing my fluid quite frequently nowadays and the wife is getting tired of pumping ....

[Brando]

Just grab a $20 mighty-vac from Harbor Freight.

Saved a ton of work on my bug, my dad's 964, and our 911SC.

[SoCal Driver]

Originally posted by ae1969
SOcal what are you using as a power bleeder......

I have always been doing the pump and hold routine.... works... but novelty is wearing off.

I am changing my fluid quite frequently nowadays and the wife is getting tired of pumping ....

Most any power bleeder will do.

[jimbilly]

I wouldn't bother with drilled rotors. I'd install a cooling duct kit before drilled rotors, but if you're not overheating your brakes you don't need either.
I use one of those mighty-vacs, it's slower than having someone on the pedal, but you can do it by yourself just fine.
I really like Ferodo Street pads for everyday and auto-x use, they're pretty inexpensive and have great pedal feel. I believe that Pelican sells them too. They're great for everything but harder lapping use (they are a bit dirty though, but any good pad will be).
I agree w/ Socal driver about not getting your rotors turned unless they're really bad or wobbly (I think many-people disagree though!), -a waste of $$ IMO.
You can also easily delete your pad sensors. If you check your pad wear frequently you really don't need the sensors.

[idontknow]

I built a pressure bleeder using the idea from here:

http://www.bmw-m.net/TechProc/bleeder.htm

Works really fast, just fill the bottle, hook it up, pump it up, crack the line and watch the fluid flow. It works really fast and you don't have to worry about draining the resivoir (I know I spelled that wrong)

[MrPants]

Originally posted by ae1969
SOcal I am changing my fluid quite frequently nowadays and the wife is getting tired of pumping ....

you could always do some of the pumping