Help a Newbie. Brake System
 

Hello All. I'm new to restoring. So far I've been able to change my fan, rebuild my transfer case, fix various electrical problems, install a new low range unit and install a new OME lift kit in my garage with very little experience all with the great help from jeep enthusiast forums just like these.

I now need to over hall my brake system. I've added larger tires and the added stress has caused something near my master brake cylinder/booster to create a brake fluid leak. In order for me to get the proper parts, I need to find out if my brake callipers are connected via a 2 bolt or a 6 bolt system. I've learned what each system looks like and i've set off to try to see what version I have.

Since I'm a brand new to this, I need some help in dismantling my front brake system and while I'm there, change the front pads. Unfortunately I have no Idea what to do next. Here are some photos of my front passenger brake.

Brakes Jeep Cj7 1978 - Imgur

Do I unfasten the 6 bolts as pictured in the first photo? Pull the assembly forward? The calliper itself has a small hex screw that I can remove as well but I haven't a clue what that does.

If anyone would be so kind to help me out I'd me exceedingly appreciative.

Thank you

Re: Help a Newbie. Brake System
 

It's a long time since I saw that type of caliper. It looks like the ones that were on my 78 ford truck and if memory serves me correctly there is a single bolt (see last picture) that screws into a jam plate. You remove the plate and then knock out the plate, the caliper can be then hinged upwards and unhooked. It's a good idea to soak the bolt in some good penetrating oil before you try to move it or you will end up having to drill it out and re-tap the hole.
Which part of Montreal are you in? there are a few of us old guys on the south shore who are familiar with the older stuff.

Re: Help a Newbie. Brake System
 

Hello and thank you for the information. I can remove the hex bolt without issue. Do I now need to knock out the plate through the hole (with a punch or something) or do you mean I need to hit at the plate from elsewhere? If so from where?

I'm in the west Island of Montreal so not too far from you.

Thank you

Re: Help a Newbie. Brake System
 

If memory serves, once the bolt is out, the plate can be gently driven out sideways, ie. from the outside of the vehicle towards the inside of the vehicle. The plate is not completely flat it has some kind of shape but I don't remember exactly what. I'll see if I can find it in one of my manuals, but don't hold your breath.

Re: Help a Newbie. Brake System
 

Hi Everyone,

With a little penetrating oil I've managed to loosen the hex bolt. I've also was able to slide out the the two pieces that hold the calliper in place. I am able to fiddle with calliper so that it has some movement on the rotor but as I try to remove the calliper, the brake pad is getting stuck on the calliper mount (which I can now tell is a 6 bolt calliper mount system). What method should I try to remove the calliper from the rotor so that the pad doesn't hit the calliper mount?

Thank you.

Re: Help a Newbie. Brake System
 

I don't recall having any any problems removing the caliper once the plate was removed, it was a long time ago. I did have a look in my manuals but didn't find anything, I'll continue to look.

Re: Help a Newbie. Brake System
 

Hello All!

I just wanted to say thank you to everyone that replied. I managed to remove the calliper, change the pads install a new brake master cylinder and booster and bleed the MC and the brake lines all because of the kind people on these forums!

I've got other issue with the engine but that is for another thread. You guys are the best!