Latest project was to install new rotors and pads on the front, and get the summer rims and new rubber on.

I went with EBC rotors and Centric ceramic pads. I must say, very pleased with the performance and they look great. I'll get some pics up soon.

The install is simple. Jack the car up, pull the wheels (loosen the lugs before you get the fronts off the ground). Once it's safely jacked up, then you get to work. First unbolt the caliper retaining bolts.. I think they are 12 or 13mm if memory serves. This is also a good time to inspect the rubber sleeves for wear and clean them off real good. Pull the caliper off and hang it from the coil spring with some wire to keep it out of the way and safe. Clean it off as well, being careful not to damage the rubber boot. A small bronze wire brush works good. Next, pull off the caliper bracket. These might take a little bit of penetrating oil and some grunting...15mm bolt heads I think. Once you get them popped loose, remove the bracket. The rotor is now ready to come off. I used a 3.5lb sledge to knock the back of the rotor (gently) in a circular pattern to work it loose. You don't want to go overboard, a real solid whack and the rotor could damage your wheel stud threads.

Installation is just as easy. Clean off your new rotors with caliper cleaner. I wear nitrile or rubber gloves while handling the rotors to avoid getting grease on them. Fit the rotor, then screw 2 lugnuts on to hold them in place. Oh yeah, make sure you clean the hub off real good  before you fit the rotor - wire brush the heck out of it. Once the rotors are back on, then you can start assembly of the bracket and calipers. I use a little anti sieze on most of the bolts. Start with the bracket, obviously, then go to the caliper. Take the pads, use brake grease on the backs, and fit them into the caliper brackets. Make sure the perches are good and clean and lightly grease them. The pads can be a little tricky to fit, I found that pushing in the bottom first works well to compress the spring, then while pushing down, slide in the top.

Once everything is on, I spin the rotor to check for clearance and any grease that may have gotten on the rotor. Put the wheel back on (don't forget to torque them down after you get them back on the ground - I go 90ft-lbs). Take the car for a spin - avoid prolonged and emergency braking if possible to properly seat the rotors. The ceramic pads will be a little noisy at first, but it will go away after a while.

I'll get a couple pics of the finished product up here soon. Leave a comment if you need more info.

As for summer rubber, I went with Hankook Ventus V4's. Buy 3 get one free at Poop Boys ($101 each). Once i had them properly balanced by the dealer (Road Force) and I rotated them (front to back, they are directional - I have a slightly out of round rim) they ride very good and handle quite well. Mine are 225/45 ZR17's. I had my alignment shop set the toe to zero - the car seems to ride smoother and I expect better tire wear.

Until next time....