Brake problems

[Moco143]

Ok, I consider myself a pretty good mechanic, I've even done the top end on a four stroke, rebuilt my own forks, and about everything else I can think of, but every time I change rear brake pads, it's like the new ones are too thick! Anybody else have this problem, or am I missing something here. Front pads are always easy, pop the old ones out, pop the new ones in. Rear pads, pop the old ones out, then pry with a screw driver and cuss for 20 minutes trying to get the new pads in, and then my rear tire barely rolls because they are so tight. HELP!! This time I'm working on my '07 CRF450.

[sean 252]

Originally Posted by Moco143

Ok, I consider myself a pretty good mechanic, I've even done the top end on a four stroke, rebuilt my own forks, and about everything else I can think of, but every time I change rear brake pads, it's like the new ones are too thick! Anybody else have this problem, or am I missing something here. Front pads are always easy, pop the old ones out, pop the new ones in. Rear pads, pop the old ones out, then pry with a screw driver and cuss for 20 minutes trying to get the new pads in, and then my rear tire barely rolls because they are so tight. HELP!! This time I'm working on my '07 CRF450.

I just read somewheres recently ...To shake that clip...It doesnt line up with all pads....I had the same problem and I just did that and have never had any issues,,,,Reading it in JULY 2008 MX ACTION confirmed it..

[osulli170]

maybe dont use the metal backing that the stock ones use.. they dont really serve a purpose..

also what brand pads are you using..?!

i know that EBC pads are thinker then Galfer..

and the most logical (and should be the easiest to answer) question is did you get the right pads..?!

[Moco143]

Yea, the are the right pads, EBC, and identical to stock. I considered taking out the metal plates, but don't they stop vibration (Squeaking) and doesn't the thin fiber plate in there block/dissipate the heat so the fluid won't boil? I'm not a brake dragger, so that might be a moot question anyway.

[BAY AREA MX]

Originally Posted by Moco143

Yea, the are the right pads, EBC, and identical to stock. I considered taking out the metal plates, but don't they stop vibration (Squeaking) and doesn't the thin fiber plate in there block/dissipate the heat so the fluid won't boil? I'm not a brake dragger, so that might be a moot question anyway.

you hit the nail on the head...thats exactly what that thin piece of metal is for...to help dissipate the heat keeping it from transferring to the piston which in turn would transfer to the fluid and boil...but I think its mostly for noise...

[Moco143]

I took out ONE of the plates, the one closest to the wheel and away from the piston side. The wheel rolls freely now and I figured it would be ok long enough for the pads to wear a little bit and then I'll put it back in.

[spokes]

It says on the EBC package to not run those heat shields.....

[Shgnwgn008]

yea, ebc recommends that you dont refit the metal shim to there pads

[Moco143]

Directions?? I'm a man, who the heck reads directions?! LOL!! Seriously though, I didn't know that about the EBC brake pads. I just read the package they came in and didn't see that comment anywhere, because it was hidden by the pricing sticker. DOH!!! Thanks guys!! See you at Hangtown tomorrow.

[tractionaction]

There is nothing like OEM pads, they will always fit. As I too used aftermarket pads that where to thick. I ended up chucking them after 1 or 2 rides.