DIY Brakes in a Mitsubishi Galant

The Mitsubishi Galant was manufactured with four-wheel hydraulic disk braking systems on most models. This system uses a pressurized design that applies force to friction rotors with braking pads to stop the vehicle. These parts can wear out and require repair and can be replaced by the average backyard mechanic in about a half-hour per wheel.

Prepare the Galant

Raise and prepare the car by jacking it up and placing it on jack stands, then removing the wheel by turning its lug nuts counterclockwise. Set the wheel aside and inspect the brake for rust, damage or fluid leakage.

Remove the Caliper

Remove the caliper and pads by turning the two bolts at the rear counterclockwise, then sliding the caliper off of the rotor. Check the pads for wear and pull them free, restraining the caliper's pistons with a clamp or vice grips. Set the caliper off to the side of the rotor, but do not let it hang by the brake lines. On the Galant, a convenient area to place the caliper temporarily is the control arm directly in back of the rotor.

Replace the Rotor

Remove and replace the rotor, if necessary, by pulling it free of the hub. Older rotors may have become seized to the hub and can be broken free with anti-seizing spray and/or light taps from a mallet. The rotor can be "turned" by local automotive shops, where they machine the surfaces; the rotor must meet thickness requirements to be machined. Replacement is done by firmly pressing a new rotor into place.

Replace the Caliper

Slide fresh pads onto the caliper (removing the clamp) and quickly position the caliper onto the rotor. The pistons will attempt to push out due to fluid pressure; the caliper must be on the rotor before it extends too far. Tighten the bolts on the rear of the caliper.

Wrapping Up

Spray a generous amount of anti-squeal spray to the caliper's pad openings, but not on the front or sides of the pads directly. Replace the wheel by tightening the lug nuts, then lower it from the jack stands onto the ground with the jack. Bleed the brake line to this wheel by adding fresh fluid to the master cylinder while the bleeder nipple is open.