2002 Chevy Astro BRAKES

First, I would replace them yourself. Here are directions:

1.Raise and safely support the vehicle.
2.Remove the tire and wheel assembly.
3.Remove the brake caliper mounting bolts and carefully remove the caliper (along with the brake pads) from the rotor. Do not disconnect the brake line; instead wire the caliper out of the way with the line still connected.

NOTE
Once the rotor is removed from the vehicle the wheel bearings may be cleaned and repacked or the bearings and races may be replaced.

4.Carefully pry out the grease cap, then remove the cotter pin, spindle nut, and washer. Remove the hub, being careful not to drop the outer wheel bearings. As the hub is pulled forward, the outer wheel bearings will often fall forward and they may easily be removed at this time.

Fig. Exploded view of brake assembly-2WD models

To install:

1.Carefully install the wheel hub over the spindle.
2.Using your hands, firmly press the outer bearing into the hub.
3.Loosely install the spindle washer and nut, but do not install the cotter pin or dust cap at this time.
4.Install the brake caliper.
5.Install the tire and wheel assembly.
6.Properly adjust the wheel bearings:
A.Spin the wheel forward by hand and tighten the nut to 12 ft. lbs. (16 Nm) in order to fully seat the bearings and remove any burrs from the threads.
B.Back off the nut until it is just loose, then finger-tighten the nut.
C.Loosen the nut 1 / 4 - 1 / 2 turn until either hole in the spindle lines up with a slot in the nut, then install a new cotter pin. This may appear to be too loose, but it is the correct adjustment.
D.Proper adjustment creates 0.001-0.005 in. (0.025-0.127mm) end-play.

7.Install the dust cap.
8.Install the wheel/hub cover, then remove the supports and carefully lower the vehicle.

As far as the brake rotors, I looked them up at a nationally recognized parts store. Based on warranty, they run from 35 to 75 dollars. The brakes, on the other hand, I would recommend just a standard brake pad. when you get ones that are a harder compound, they wear the rotors faster.

If you have to pay someone to do it, the book calls for 2 hours labor for both sides.

If you choose to do it yourself, let me know if you have questions.

Joe

If you plan to do it yourself and run into trouble, let me know and I'll walk you through it. Honestly, it isn't hard to do. It will take a little time, but not that major of a job.

Take care, and you are welcome. I'm glad to help.

Joe

Let me know if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe