mtlbenz

Hey guys,

I'll be replacing the brake pads on my 03 SL500 soon. I've done several brake jobs, but never on a Benz.

I've done research and know about disconnecting the rear battery, as well as pressing the brake pedal a few times and turning the sterring wheel lock to lock to get rid of the warnings in the dash. However what I am cnfused about is, do I have to replace the break pad sensor every time I change brakepads?

I notice that the bolts on the back of the calipers are like allen keys, I've never seen that before, usually they are 10mm..or so bolts. How about the front calipers? Are those "allen" key bolts as well?

Are there any other tricks I should know about?

Thanks
Nick

m4xm1l10n

There you go man this is how i did mine. easy task !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

http://www.petefagerlin.com/ML/brakes.htm

mtlbenz

That's a great DIY, thanks!! But I noticed its for an ML, my car is an 03 SL500(R230). Is it the same procedure? Did you still have to disconnect the battery for the SBC?

m4xm1l10n

Same idea bro ML SL S SAME **** I didn't disconnect anything . just go for it

Television

If you are going to do it with the battery connected, keep the keys well away and do not open a door, or the system will charge up

mtlbenz

Even if I dont have "keyless go"?

Television

Makes no difference,, there is a wake up circuit on the doors and locking,,so just make sure that no one can press a key or open a door

mtlbenz

One more question,

Do I need to buy new pad wear sensors too? Or do I just but new Pads and Rotors?

m4xm1l10n

That is up to you , the sensors are so cheap like $4 bucks or less why not replace them , you only need two!!!!

M-bENZ

I thought we need 3 ...Front: left + right, Rear: right

m4xm1l10n

The front sensors are located at L front , don't remember the rear , and yes is only one in the front and one in the rear .

mtlbenz

Good point!!

Can you suggest any particular brand of pads + rotors?

Also, does anybody know of a canadian on-line dealer for parts?

mikeinsf

Anyone have any good recommendations for ceramic pads to reduce dust?

As soon as the rear rubber on my Pilots gets low I'm going to put on the new wheel/tire combo I bought off another user. I figure that'll be a good time to put some low-dusting pads on too.

m4xm1l10n

AKEBONO PADS , you will simply love it , and seriously 0 brake dust i mean 000!!! I have it all around on my SL500 Keeps my black wheels clean at all times

mtlbenz

Where can I get these AKEBOND pads? Also, what discs do you suggest?

mikeinsf

Thanks for the recommendation!

http://www.google.com/search?q=akebo...I7DKUS_enUS289

A little deeper clicking yields this URL:
http://www.fcpgroton.com/product-exe...W209+CLK+Class+

m4xm1l10n

I don't remember the site but the part number is

2003 SL500
EUR986 REAR PADS
EUR847 FRONT PADS
SENSORS INCLUDED

Just Google AKEBONO BRAKE PADS it should give you a bunch of websites , as far as rotors OEM is just fine .

mtlbenz

Great thanks!!

lkirchner

I have to agree with you. My Daughter's BMW had brake dust that was 5 times worse than an MB. After 50 miles they would look bad and after 100 miles the fronts would be black. I had the Akebonos put on and I cannot believe how clean they stay---almost zero dusting.

Rick SL55

I also have the Akebono, search at ebay, it got if from this seller at ebay, BTW great service. RWIAMERICA

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/AKEBO...mZ330150273850

mikeinsf

Seems like the prices at FCP Groton are about the best online right now.
$160 for front and rear pads, free shipping. No tax for anyone but CT residents.

m4xm1l10n

Good price !!!!

mtlbenz

Wow that is a good price!!

Now I'm thinking maybe I should just change the pads. How do I know if the rotors need to be changed as well?

daltex

Ridges on the rotor or being too glazed will need turning/replacement

I am going to be doing a C350 and SL500 this weekend.
I am going to be brave and not disconnect the battery or deactivate the SBC.
Will tell you how it worked out.

mtlbenz

that would be great! thanks very much.

If possible try to take some pics too!

thanks !