I'm contemplating whether to do the TSX front brake upgrade while I have the opportunity. 2003 EX AWD with 103K miles. While changing brake pads I noticed one of my front calipers is weeping brake fluid and the brakes (all 4 rotors, calipers and carriers) are rusty/ugly (NYC street parked most of its life, seen its fair share of rain, snow and road salt). While I temporarily got it to be serviceable for the time being, the calipers are due to be replaced.
I've been reading up on some of the threads relating to TSX front brake upgrade and am wondering if (a) it is as straightforward as straight bolt-on, and (b) any preferred supplier (or where to avoid)
As far as I have read I think these are some of the things folks encounter:
I would probably say new OEM parts are out due to cost (except brake hoses)
I think several folks mentioned Callahan as what they used
I think there was mention of Detroit Axle as well (Amazon)
I would probably take the opportunity to replace the brake hoses (may pay my shop to do this, as well as brake fluid change). Contemplating if I should just hand the shop 'all the parts' and have them bolt them on and do the brake bleed. Unless I can bolt the parts on, get fluids in (without a bleeder) so the front brake works sufficiently to drive 4 miles to the shop...
Although I have no problems bolting parts on (have done many a brake jobs, engine mounts, sway bar bushings, transmission solenoids, etc), I do not have the right tools to bleed brakes. Not without buying tools.
Also another consideration for whatever work I do myself, will need to be completed in one go (i.e. 3-4 hours timeframe), because I don't have the luxury of a garage or workshop, only a parking spot and it isn't for this car. Not really an option to leave the car on jackstands and parts laying around if I encounter installation issues.
Thanks
I've been reading up on some of the threads relating to TSX front brake upgrade and am wondering if (a) it is as straightforward as straight bolt-on, and (b) any preferred supplier (or where to avoid)
As far as I have read I think these are some of the things folks encounter:
- brake hose to TSX caliper issue
- brake bleeding (make sure to mount the caliper so the bleed nipple is towards the top)
- rotor backing plate clearance (bend, or cut) - any concerns with rust, if cutting?
- (if aftermarket/non-reman) caliper bracket mounting holes not lining up
- very tight clearance with OEM alloys, like 1/4"?
I would probably say new OEM parts are out due to cost (except brake hoses)
I think several folks mentioned Callahan as what they used
I think there was mention of Detroit Axle as well (Amazon)
I would probably take the opportunity to replace the brake hoses (may pay my shop to do this, as well as brake fluid change). Contemplating if I should just hand the shop 'all the parts' and have them bolt them on and do the brake bleed. Unless I can bolt the parts on, get fluids in (without a bleeder) so the front brake works sufficiently to drive 4 miles to the shop...
Although I have no problems bolting parts on (have done many a brake jobs, engine mounts, sway bar bushings, transmission solenoids, etc), I do not have the right tools to bleed brakes. Not without buying tools.
Also another consideration for whatever work I do myself, will need to be completed in one go (i.e. 3-4 hours timeframe), because I don't have the luxury of a garage or workshop, only a parking spot and it isn't for this car. Not really an option to leave the car on jackstands and parts laying around if I encounter installation issues.
Thanks
