Akebono Brake Pads are widely recognized for their high-performance characteristics, including ceramic friction technology, enhanced stopping power, and extended wear life. These features make them a popular choice among automotive enthusiasts and professionals. However, proper installation is critical to ensuring optimal performance and safety. Based on insights from multiple user experiences and technical notes, this article provides a detailed overview of the Akebono brake pad installation process, with a focus on rear pad fitment challenges, caliper preparation, and assembly steps.
Akebono Brake Pads: Overview and Features
Akebono Severe Duty Brake Pads are engineered to deliver superior stopping power and long-lasting performance. The company has over 90 years of experience in brake design and production, offering products that cater to both fleet and individual vehicle owners. Their ceramic-based friction material ensures quieter operation, reduced dust accumulation, and improved rotor life.
One of the key advantages of Akebono brake pads is their compatibility with a wide range of vehicles and driving conditions. The EUR495 model, for example, is commonly used in rear applications and is noted for its balance of performance and durability. However, as highlighted by user reports, the installation of these pads—especially in the rear—can present specific challenges, particularly in terms of fitment and clearance.
Preparing for Installation
Before beginning the installation process, it is essential to gather the necessary tools and components. Based on the source material, the following items are typically required:
- New Akebono brake pads (e.g., EUR495 model)
- Brake rotor (e.g., StopTech slotted rotor)
- Braided stainless steel (SS) brake hoses
- Wheel spacer kit (including new lug studs)
- Brake cleaner
- Copper-containing grease
- Shims and anti-rattle clips
- Disc brake quiet spray or equivalent
- Wrenches and sockets of appropriate sizes
- Air hammer and punch (for lug stud removal)
- Plastic drain pan for brake fluid
- Wheel bearing cleaner or wire brush
It is also recommended to ensure that the hydraulic brake system is empty and that all components are free from rust, grease, or debris. This is particularly important for the caliper and rotor mating surfaces, as any contaminants can lead to uneven pressure distribution and potential warping.
Step-by-Step Installation Procedure
The following steps summarize the installation process for Akebono brake pads, drawing on detailed instructions provided in the source material.
1. Disassembly and Preparation
- Begin by removing the wheel and tire assembly.
- Use an air hammer and punch to carefully remove the lug studs, ensuring they are aligned with the semi-circular cutout on the steering knuckle.
- Clean all rust and debris from the wheel bearing flange using a wire brush or similar tool.
- Apply a thin layer of disc brake quiet spray to the mating surface to reduce noise and vibration.
2. Caliper and Rotor Replacement
- Remove the existing brake rotor and caliper.
- Clean the caliper thoroughly, ensuring that all internal surfaces are free from rust, dust, and grease.
- Compress the caliper pistons fully using a suitable tool or C-clamp.
- Install the new rotor and apply brake cleaner to remove any shipping oils or residues.
3. Pad Installation
- Apply copper-containing grease to the backside of the brake pads and install the supplied shims.
- Ensure that the wear indicators are correctly oriented within the caliper.
- Slide the pads into the caliper with the shims facing the pistons.
- Install the anti-rattle clips and pins using a Phillips screwdriver and needle-nose pliers.
4. Final Assembly and Bleeding
- Carefully slide the caliper assembly onto the rotor.
- Install the new brake line union bolt, ensuring that brass washers are placed on both sides of the connection.
- Tighten the union bolt to 13 ft-lbs, avoiding overtightening.
- Repeat the process for the opposite side.
- Perform a brake bleeding procedure to remove air from the system. Begin with the outer bleeder on the right side, followed by the inner bleeder, and then proceed to the left side.
- Test the brake pedal for firmness and check for any leaks.
- Reinstall the wheels and torque the lug nuts to 80 ft-lbs. It is important to verify that all components, including wheel locks and capped lug nuts, fit properly with the new lug studs.
5. Post-Installation Checks
- After installation, it is recommended to perform a short road test of approximately two miles without heavy braking to ensure proper seating of the components.
- Retorque the lug nuts to 80 ft-lbs after the initial drive.
Common Installation Challenges and Solutions
User reports highlight several challenges that can arise during the installation of Akebono brake pads, particularly in the rear. One such issue is the tight fit of the EUR495 rear pads within the caliper. In some cases, users reported that the pads would not slide into place easily and required gentle tapping with a hammer to install. Additionally, once installed, the pads were so tightly clamped against the rotor that the rotor could not be turned by hand, even with the caliper pistons fully retracted and the brake fluid system empty.
This situation raised concerns about whether the tight fit was normal or indicative of a problem with either the pads or the rotors. Some users attempted to reinstall the original OEM rotors to see if the issue persisted, but in most cases, the tight fit remained. This suggests that the fitment may be a design characteristic of the Akebono EUR495 pads when used in conjunction with slotted rotors.
To address this issue, it is important to ensure that all caliper and rotor surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and free of debris. Users should also verify that the caliper pistons are fully compressed before installing the pads. If the pads still resist installation, it may be necessary to consult a professional technician to confirm that the components are compatible and that no manufacturing defects are present.
Considerations for Different Vehicle Platforms
The installation process described in the source material is primarily based on rear-wheel-drive (RWD) vehicles. While the general steps may be applicable to all-wheel-drive (AWD) platforms, the user explicitly notes that they cannot verify the procedure’s effectiveness on AWD models. This highlights the importance of consulting manufacturer-specific guidelines or a qualified technician when working on different vehicle types.
Additionally, the installation process assumes the use of factory 19-inch sport wheels, which are commonly used in performance-oriented vehicles. If the vehicle is equipped with a different wheel size or design, modifications to the installation process may be necessary.
Safety and Compliance
Safety is a critical consideration when performing brake system modifications. Users should always follow manufacturer recommendations for torque specifications, component compatibility, and bleeding procedures. Improper installation can lead to reduced braking performance, increased stopping distances, or even brake failure.
Furthermore, users should ensure that all components meet or exceed OEM specifications. For example, the use of braided stainless steel brake hoses can improve pedal feel and reduce expansion under pressure, but it is important to confirm that these parts are compatible with the vehicle’s braking system.
Conclusion
Akebono Brake Pads offer a reliable and high-performance solution for vehicle owners seeking improved braking efficiency and longevity. However, their installation requires careful preparation, attention to detail, and an understanding of potential fitment issues—especially in the rear. By following the outlined steps and addressing common challenges, users can ensure a successful installation and optimal performance from their Akebono brake pads.
For those undertaking this project, it is recommended to consult manufacturer documentation, verify component compatibility, and, when in doubt, seek assistance from a qualified technician. Proper installation not only enhances vehicle performance but also contributes to overall driving safety.