Doing Brakes. What else while I'm in there...?
 

With the coming of winter and road salt, I'll soon be parking my '82 240D for the winter.

One of my projects is going to be to replace the brakes.

My 240D has developed a pretty bad shudder during braking, which I attribute to a warped rear rotor (because I feel the shake more in the seat than in my hands when I'm driving).

The previous owner said he had all 4 brakes replaced (about 20,000 miles ago). I suspect the rotors were "turned" and the cheapest pads were used.

I'd like to remove and replace the rotors and pads on all 4 wheels, and I also plan on replacing the flexible brake lines in back because I noticed one of them appears cracked (not leaking).

My question is: What else should I do while I'm in there...? I'm thinking wheel bearings, perhaps?.

I want to "do it right".

Thanks!

- Patrick

Being you are in a northern state while you are under there pay close attention to rust on the suspension etc....

Good advice. I bought this car from a retired Air Force guy who moved up from Oklahoma. Car still had the valid Oklahoma plates on it when I bought it. It has never seen road salt. :)

- Patrick

I used to experience a bending of the front passenger's side wheel during heavy braking at highway speeds. The wheel would bend inwards, towards the fender and the entire car would shake up. Inspection revealed worn out brake strut rod bushings. I replaced both bushings and the brakes now work perfectly. You might want to check the state of yours while you're in there. I was able to get them cheaply, $60/each from the MB parts guy.

123 rotors are very cheap. Replacing the hoses is probably a good idea and plan on packing the front wheel bearings while you're at it.

While you're working away underneath there, check all suspension components using the four P method; Push, Pull, Pry and Prod.

Good luck,