I need to replace the rear brakes on my '81 300TD. Is it true that the pads can be replaced without removing the brake caliper? What is the procedure?

Thanks,
Gary

No, the calipers have to be removed to replace the pads, but it's easy. Two bolts, remove the caliper, force the pistons back in so it will fit with the new (thicker) pads, put some brake grease where the pads ride and where the pistons press against the pads, and put it back together. It's one of the simplest brake jobs you can do. If you have access to a micrometer, it would be a good idea to check the thickness of the rotor. When changing pads I replace rotors that are under spec, but leave them alone otherwise. This is also a good time to flush the brake fluid. And check your brake hoses while you're in there. If there are cracks in the rubber (they seem to start cracking near the metal fittings) they should be replaced.

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1982 300D, black w/ palomino leather, 203K
2001 E320, champagne, 105K (Mom's)
1999 Dodge Dakota, squeaky & battered, 142K

I think Cateaux is thinking of a different model. All you need to do on the 123 chassis is knock the pins out, remove the cross piece, force the pads back, and remove them. I suggest removing and replacing one pad at a time so you don't pop a piston out. That is how I've done it since 1977 when the 123 was first sold in this country.

Peter

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Auto Zentral Ltd.

Garyrl,

Believe Autozen.

P E H

Maybe if he was thinking of Parking brakes, that would mean pulling calipers o/w everything said is true except what cateaux said, the calipers do not need to be removed to replace pads. piece of cake, unless you find a caliper with a stuck piston like I did last weekend

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'95 E320 Wagon my favorite road car. '99 E300D wolf in sheeps body, '87 300D Sportline suspension, '79 300TD w/ 617.952 engine at 367,750 and counting!

Yeah, I was thinking of another car . The 123 has a fixed caliper, with the pads held in place by pins. I'm off my game today...and I'm about to go change my starter. That should be fun

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1982 300D, black w/ palomino leather, 203K
2001 E320, champagne, 105K (Mom's)
1999 Dodge Dakota, squeaky & battered, 142K