How to replace the brake pads on a 1967 Shelby GT500?

Replacing the brake pads on a 1967 Shelby GT500 is an essential maintenance procedure that ensures the car maintains optimal braking performance. Over time, brake pads can wear down due to friction, making it necessary to replace them to maintain safety and vehicle efficiency. Signs that you may need to replace the brake pads include screeching or grinding noises when braking, reduced braking efficiency, or a noticeable decrease in brake pad thickness. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's time to replace the brake pads. Here is how to solve this issue:

Step 1: Prepare Your Tools and Work Area
Ensure you have the appropriate tools: a jack, jack stands, a lug wrench, a C-clamp, a socket set, and the new brake pads. Park the car on a flat, stable surface and ensure the parking brake is engaged. Gather all necessary tools within reach.

Step 2: Lift the Car and Remove the Wheels
Use the jack to lift the front of the car and support it securely with jack stands. Locate the jacking points on the Shelby GT500, typically found just behind the front wheels. Once the car is lifted, use a lug wrench to remove the lug nuts and take off the front wheels. The brake calipers and the brake rotor should now be visible.

Step 3: Remove the Brake Caliper
Locate the brake caliper, which straddles the brake rotor. It is secured by two bolts at the rear of the caliper. Use the appropriate socket to remove these bolts. Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor and support it to avoid putting stress on the brake line. You can use a piece of wire or a bungee cord to hang the caliper from the suspension spring.

Step 4: Remove the Old Brake Pads
With the caliper removed, you can now access the brake pads. The pads are usually held in place by metal clips. Carefully remove the clips and slide the old brake pads out of their slots. Take note of their orientation for easy installation of the new pads.

Step 5: Compress the Brake Caliper Piston
Before installing the new brake pads, you need to compress the caliper piston. Place the C-clamp on the caliper and over the piston. Slowly tighten the C-clamp until the piston is fully retracted into the caliper housing. This step is crucial to accommodate the thickness of the new brake pads.

Step 6: Install the New Brake Pads
Insert the new brake pads into the caliper bracket. Ensure they are properly seated and match the orientation of the old pads you removed. Replace any retaining clips if necessary, securing the new pads in place.

Step 7: Reattach the Brake Caliper
Carefully slide the brake caliper over the new brake pads and the rotor. Line up the bolt holes and reinsert the caliper bolts. Tighten them securely, ensuring the caliper is firmly in place without over-tightening, which could damage the bolts.

Step 8: Reinstall the Wheels and Lower the Car
Place the wheels back onto the wheel hubs and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Use the jack to lift the car slightly and remove the jack stands. Lower the car back to the ground and then use the lug wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even tightening.

Step 9: Test Your Work
Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure the brake pads are properly seated and the brake pedal feels firm. Take the car for a short test drive to confirm that the brakes are functioning correctly without any unusual noises or issues.

By following these steps, you can successfully replace the brake pads on your 1967 Shelby GT500, ensuring continued safety and optimal performance.