Detailing more than just the wheels

dtbernstein87

dtbernstein87

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Hey all - another question (since everyone is so helpful): A buddy of mine recommended I consistently clean my rotors to prevent any sort of build up/oxidation/whatever over time. I read a little about this and people seemed to have pretty mixed feelings on potential damaging effects of using different cleaners. I figured I'd open up a thread to see what people here had to say (perhaps from experience)?
 
when replacing rotors you need to clean the oil off them but other then that never heard of cleaning them im sure every time you hit the brakes the pads are doing the cleaning for you. now if the car sits a long time the rotors will rust and if real bad then you can take them in to get turned. I think cleaning them with anything might effect how they work and could potentially be dangerous but lets see if there is a certified mechanic who knows for sure.
 
Only thing I clean is the hub rotor where the wheel actually sits. If you run cars in winter with salt, it can become a PITA to change wheels because the wheel basically sticks to the hub
 
Leave them alone but do machine polish the spark plugs to a glowing white finish :laughing:.
 
What does your buddy clean his rotors with, I wonder??

So many types of rotors.

-Metallic, Semi-Metallic, Composite Carbon-Fiber, Ceramic, etc.

-Zinc-Plated, Cadmium-Plated, etc.

-Flat Disc, Drilled, Slotted, Combo Drilled/Slotted, Vanes (directional/straight), etc.

-One-Piece, Two-Piece, "Floating", Hub/Rotor Assembly, etc.

As has been mentioned:

-Clean any anti-corrosive films, including cosmoline, oil/phosphate-based, off new/replacement rotors...I've used IPA, and non-chlorinated brake cleaners like Brakleen's NC for their removal. Or rust-removal for vehicles hardly driven and have probably been setting outside/moist conditions.

-Most brake rotors are "self-cleaning" while driving/stopping.

-Won't harm brake pads/rotors/calipers if you get some car wash shampoo on them.

-Don't spray brake cleaners, and most other "cleaners" directly on rotors/calipers/brake pads, even if the wheels have been removed. Spray some on a soft cloth and gently rub the rotor, if you feel it's necessary. I don't.

-Many types of rotors can't be re-surfaced.

-Also some "cleaners" will wreak havoc on hub seals.

-Be very careful using "chemicals" around your brake systems..."The life you save, just may not be just your own"!!!

:)

Bob
 
This same friend may soon mention the need to clean/replace your piston return springs. Make sure you give them the same care as your rotors.
 
The only maintenance that you should be doing to your brakes other than pad/rotor replacement is cleaning and lubricating the caliper slide pins.

You should also change your brake fluid every couple years. Moisture gets into the system over time.

Also, rotors have now become a replace rather than turn part. This is do to the decreased thickness from the factory, and cheap Chinese steel.

I could go on about indexing rotors, runout, and the proper use of a dial indicator... But I digress.
 
tw33k2514 said:
The only maintenance that you should be doing to your brakes other than pad/rotor replacement is cleaning and lubricating the caliper slide pins.

You should also change your brake fluid every couple years. Moisture gets into the system over time.

Also, rotors have now become a replace rather than turn part. This is do to the decreased thickness from the factory, and cheap Chinese steel.

I could go on about indexing rotors, runout, and the proper use of a dial indicator... But I digress.
Click to expand...

^^^:goodpost:^^^

I'd like to add the "balancing" factor, also, if I may.

:)

Bob
 
tw33k2514 said:
The only maintenance that you should be doing to your brakes other than pad/rotor replacement is cleaning and lubricating the caliper slide pins.

You should also change your brake fluid every couple years. Moisture gets into the system over time.

Also, rotors have now become a replace rather than turn part. This is do to the decreased thickness from the factory, and cheap Chinese steel.

I could go on about indexing rotors, runout, and the proper use of a dial indicator... But I digress.
Click to expand...

Ding ding ding...WE HAVE A WINNER!

Bill
 
Muffler Bearings: Do not forget to occasionally grease the muffle bearings...
 
tw33k2514 said:
The only maintenance that you should be doing to your brakes other than pad/rotor replacement is cleaning and lubricating the caliper slide pins.
Click to expand...

I also file the carrier rails that the pad slides on down to a new smooth & level surface and lubricate. Take a look at them next time you do your brakes, they will have a low spot where the pad can get hung-up.

Several manufacturer's also say not to clean your brand new rotors before install. Zimmermann Z-coat is one I can think of off the top of my head.
 
I thought it was manifold bearings and muffler belts! LOL
 
vet said:
I thought it was manifold bearings and muffler belts! LOL
Click to expand...

By far, my biggest "detailing-headache" is proper maintenance/torque specs. for my: High-speed bumper bolts.

:)

Bob
 
Don't forget to change out the air in your tires from summer air to winter air and back agin.

Bill
 
tw33k2514 said:
Also, rotors have now become a replace rather than turn part. This is do to the decreased thickness from the factory, and cheap Chinese steel.
Click to expand...

I've been wrestling with this. I'm from the old school where if the rotor doesn't look bad you scuff it with some emery to cut the glazing and go, but last time I did this the pads wore all uneven (I think this was actually a lube issue on these Asian brakes since I was used to old-style GM brakes where there really were no sliding surfaces other than the booted pins). So I decided I would never do that again (the scuff trick), and would always cut (yeah I know, shudda done that anyway), then one of my friends told me no one cuts rotors anymore, they are so cheap you just replace them (not to mention how hard it is to find a machine shop anymore).

So do you always replace rotors as a matter of course when you change pads?
 
FUNX725 said:
What does your buddy clean his rotors with, I wonder??

So many types of rotors.

-Metallic, Semi-Metallic, Composite Carbon-Fiber, Ceramic, etc.

-Zinc-Plated, Cadmium-Plated, etc.

-Flat Disc, Drilled, Slotted, Combo Drilled/Slotted, Vanes (directional/straight), etc.

-One-Piece, Two-Piece, "Floating", Hub/Rotor Assembly, etc.

As has been mentioned:

-Clean any anti-corrosive films, including cosmoline, oil/phosphate-based, off new/replacement rotors...I've used IPA, and non-chlorinated brake cleaners like Brakleen's NC for their removal. Or rust-removal for vehicles hardly driven and have probably been setting outside/moist conditions.

-Most brake rotors are "self-cleaning" while driving/stopping.

-Won't harm brake pads/rotors/calipers if you get some car wash shampoo on them.

-Don't spray brake cleaners, and most other "cleaners" directly on rotors/calipers/brake pads, even if the wheels have been removed. Spray some on a soft cloth and gently rub the rotor, if you feel it's necessary. I don't.

-Many types of rotors can't be re-surfaced.

-Also some "cleaners" will wreak havoc on hub seals.

-Be very careful using "chemicals" around your brake systems..."The life you save, just may not be just your own"!!!

:)

Bob
Click to expand...


My rotors seem to be more self-rusting.
 
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