Procedures

Replacing the Saab 9000 rear brake discs

Back to Replacing the Saab 9000 rear brake pads

Introduction

This procedure assumes you have already removed the rear brake caliper as detailed here.

Saab 9000 brake discs are available here

Time required

As long as you don't find some screws that are hard to shift, this part of the procedure can be expected to take between 5 and 10 minutes.

As usual, double this for the first side if you haven't done it before. Of course, I was making notes and taking photographs as well.

Tools required

These are for replacing the discs only. For tools required to replace the pads, see here. I assume some basic tools, such as a jack, axle stands, socket set, etc. However I do not assume you will already have all the necessary metric socket and spanner sizes, especially if you are in the USA. Here is a list so you can make sure you have all the necessary sizes before you start.

  • Deep 10mm socket
  • 16mm socket
  • Thread-lock compound

Procedure

  1. If the brake discs are new, remove the protective layer of grease using a suitable solvent. I scrubbed them with detergent - they are ready when the water forms a film on the disc rather than droplets. I imagine another de-greasant would do just as well.
    If not removed, this layer of grease will seriously impair braking.
    N.B. A notable exception is the ATE PowerDiscs I fitted recently to the front. These come with explicit instructions not to clean off the coating, which in this case is not grease, but a dry anti-corrosion finish. I think the rule of thumb is: if it feels greasy, remove it, otherwise look for instructions in the box.

  2. Remove the rear caliper as detailed here.
  3. Remove the screw retaining the brake disc using the deep 10mm socket and remove the disc (note that, unlike the front discs, it is not necessary to remove the caliper carrier).
  4. Smear the retaining screw with copper grease to aid future removal, then fit the new disc and secure with the retaining screw.
  5. Refit the caliper, as detailed here.