VelociRaptor

Hi everyone,

I've been reading the various posts regarding the caliper system on LS1 tech and though informative, haven't helped my issue.

This question is for a 02 base firebird. I have a broken lug stud on my driver's rear wheel and want to replace it, however, I'm having a hard time removing the caliper bracket bolts. From reading the posts, these have a much higher torque than the caliper bolts holding the pads. I can't even loosen the bracket bolts and am reluctant to attempt it for fear of stripping them. I'm using a 3/8 ratchet by the way.

What is the proper way to 1.remove these bolts and 2. put them back on and tighten them safely?

07bluelbz

iTrader: (1)

I used my air Impact on them.

FirstYrLS1Z

iTrader: (4)

impact or long box wrench with pipe slipped on for leverage.

07bluelbz

iTrader: (1)

Actually now that I think about it I was able to do the rear with a 1/2 inch ratchet. I had to slide under the fender and sit on the ground to get enough leverage though.

RJDio

I broke my favorite ratchet on the rear right caliper bracket, using a long **** pipe from home depot for leverage. I could not get it off, so I took it to my buddies 1 stall shop and he put it on lift and got it out with an impact. Paid him $20 and we were both happy

1981TA

iTrader: (7)

Breaker bar + small hammer + floor jack worked for me. Put a decent amount of pressure on the bar with the floor jack and tap the socket lightly with the hammer.

SparkyJJO

iTrader: (11)

You need a 1/2" ratchet, minimum IMO. 3/8" just isn't going to be big enough to break them free.

I usually use my breaker bar or my long handle 1/2" ratchet just because it is even easier that way. They are tough bolts, odds of breaking them are pretty slim as long as you use the right socket size.

jsteele90

iTrader: (13)

1/2 inch is what you need. I use my Dewalt impact but with a 1/2 ratchet and some man juice you will get it off no problem. maybe let it sit for a hour with some pb blaster

wssix99

iTrader: (5)

+1. The bolt has a lot of torque on it for a 3/8" tool, alone.

VelociRaptor

Thank you everyone for the excellent input.

Midnight02

iTrader: (8)

Ran into this over the weekend and mine came off with ease once I switched from a 3/8" to a 1/2" drive ratchet.

spy2520

iTrader: (3)

long handle 1/2" ratchet. I put that **** on everything.