[sudbury_versa]

Hi everyone,

I'm new here but I was hoping some of you more experienced Versa-owners could help me with an issue I'm having.

I'm trying to replace my brake pads. I bought everything (OE Spec pads, brake cleaner, caliper lube) at the local parts store last week, then when this past weekend came around I was all set to go. I took off my left tire, then got my socket wrench out and tried to loosen up the bottom caliper pin. The thing didn't budge AT ALL, no matter how much I tried.

Now the area is a bit corroded, so I figured a bit of PB Blaster would do the trick. Over the course of an hour I applied it four times. Even after doing that the thing didn't budge.

Has anyone else run into this issue? Does anyone know what else I could do, or any other ideas?

Thanks very much in advance.

 

[sudbury_versa]

There is also a product carried in parts stores call Freeze-Off. I have used it with good results. As with both products, time is required for them to work. The other option, if you have the clearance necessary would be to use an impact wrench. There are some electric ones that sell for about $25 that will do the trick when all other options are exhausted. Another option would be to give the pin a sharp rap with a light hammer. That sometimes will help in breaking up the corrosion and rust. Good luck

Thanks pimperell.

How much time do you give the Freeze-Off to work before trying again?

 

[sudbury_versa]

Likely the last tech who did the last brake job is trigger happy on the impact, they don't need to be that tight. Most people overtighten everything on a car, when a lower torque is better for the part, and is easier to break loose next time. You can simulate an impact by holding the wrench/ratchet on with one hand, and giving the wrench a hard, sudden hit, make sure you're going the right way, but that never fails in breaking them loose.

Thanks, but in fact this is the first time I'm doing anything to the brakes at all. I figure either Nissan puts them on very tight at the factory (or adds some kind of thermo-sensitive locking fluid), or the corrosion is so bad that the bolts are just stuck in there.

The car is only four years old FYI, but living in a northern climate really takes its toll. I don't think Corrosion Free sprayed anything in the tire well..