2001 Lexus IS300 Tight Caliper Bolts

LEXUS
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HNGUYEN
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  • 1 POST
Hello,

I have a 2001 Lexus IS300 (104K miles, V6) and I'm trying to change my brake pads myself for the first time. I was able to change one of the rear brake pads fine, but now when I try to change the other brake pads I can't seem to loosen the 2 lug nuts on the caliper. I have tried everything to loosen it. I've tried using penetrating oil and that didn't seem to help. I purchased a corded impact wrench, but I couldn't use it because it was too big to get behind the brake caliper. Can someone give me any tips on loosening the tight lug nug? Are there any smaller impact wrench I can use to loosen these nuts?

Thanks
Feb 25, 2007 at 2:20 AM
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SERVICE WRITER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,123 POSTS
You need a breaker bar if they won't loosen. MArk sure you keep the tool to the nut square (90 degrees). Don't strip the head or you'll have a mess.
Feb 25, 2007 at 3:43 AM
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SAPHFIRETECH
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This happens when water intrudes into the sliding pins (the bolts you are trying to free holding the caliper to the caliper bracket) and rust builds and causes them to seize in their bores. Do yourself a favor and buy a complete re manufactured caliper assembly with mounting bracket. Suggest Napa or Carquest auto parts. This will solve your problem. Oh and I suggest you do this for both sides, as the other caliper is probably having the same issue, or soon will.
Cheers!
Mar 1, 2007 at 1:12 PM

Suggested Repair

Try a breaker bar while keeping the socket square on the caliper bolt so the head is not stripped. If the sliding pins are rusted and seized, replace both rear calipers with remanufactured assemblies that include mounting brackets.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 2001 Lexus IS300 could not loosen the rear caliper bolts while changing brake pads after penetrating oil failed and an impact wrench would not fit. One reply recommended a breaker bar used squarely to avoid stripping the bolt. Another explained that water and rust can seize the sliding pins and recommended replacing both sides with remanufactured caliper assemblies and brackets.

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