D.I.Y..Z32 brakes 300zx, R33 Caliper Upgrade

I see more and more threads every day asking about this swap. how do I, what do I need. I decided to make this thread to shed a little light. Im sure it has been discussed many times over, and I know theres many write-ups every online Im just putting this here for anyone who wants to know without sending them to different site.

Mods if its not helpeful or you dont find it helpful please delete.

What you need:
Z32 Calipers
NEW caliper hardware (link below)
Z32 conversion brake lines (I recommend these)
Z32 Rotors
Replacement pads
DOT 3 brake fluid
Socket set.
Brake parts cleaner
An I.Q. of at least 90

http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/5/web/605000-605999/605259_215_full.gif
http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/5/web/605000-605999/605259_217_full.gif
http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/10/web/2086000-2086999/2086625_12.jpg

Obviously you will have to start by removing the front wheels and placing the vehicle on a pair of jackstands if not on a lift.

Unbolt calipers by removing the bolts mounting it to the hub, do NOT loose the spacers/washers on the bolts. Hang the caliper to the side using a bungee tie. You can also remove the rotor at this time. If it is being a pain to get off just give it a couple of friendly taps from behind with a rubber hammer.

Removing the dust shields
Alot of people cut of the dust shields and why I dont know when you can simply take off the Axle nut holding the hub in place and pull the entire assembly within moments.

OK now the fun stuff removing the caliper and line and replaceing it with the new.

remember to keep brake fluid in your master cylinder at all times and to check frequently to make sure there is sufficient CLEAN fluid

go ahead and get the pieces holding your line onto both your struts and the inner fender loose using a 10mm socket and flathead screwdriver. You will want to keep and re-use these pieces obviously so dont loose them or be brutal when taking them off the old lines.
I attatched the lines to my calipers before the vehicle with the bleeder valve open to gravity bleed the brakes. For easier install make sure caliper pistons are pressed all the way in before installing brake lines… If you use the 240sx motoring lines be sure not to over tighten them on installation, and teflon tape couldnt hurt to prevent leaking.

Once you get the new line in place you can put the new rotor on and mount your caliper, dont forget to put the spacers on the 2 caliper mouting bolts without thses the bolt will make contact with the surface of your new rotors and well you wont move.

Installing pads

The first thing you need when installing the pads is your hardware kit, you did buy a new one right? GOOD! this will save you much headache. Here are the correct kits for what calipers you have

Z32 1990 - Jan 1991

R33/Z32 Feb 1991-1996

These are great they come with double the hardware so you shouldnt have to purchase any again for a while, as well as Nissan grease that is good but messy, use it! Also if you buy OEM Nissan pads you will get an extra pad retaining clip for each side, at $7.00 a pc for the clips this is yet anotehr reason to buy OEM pads.

After pad installation lean the caliper and lines thouroughly with brake parts cleaner, it will make detecting a leak easier if you have one, but hopefully you wont.

Repeat steps for other side of vehicle.

Bleeding
When bleding the brakes on any vehicle you should start in order from the side furthest away form the master cylinder and work towards it.

Test driving
Just be sure to pump your brakes before going anywhere, I know, I know its something even an idiot would do however I cqnnot count how many times in the garage I have seen people NOT do this and it always ends badly. vASide form that you just want to make sure you have a good firm pedal. Bring it back to the garage after test driving it and double check the lines and master cylinder for leaks.

Breaking in the Brakes
It can be a good idea to follow these steps in seating your new pads.

For starters all I can say is find a long road wit hfew drivers and minimal stops.
Accel to 60 then slowly brake until your at 40 mph, repeat this step 3 times.
After your 3rd slow brakign and accel when you reach 60 mph again hard brake until you get to about 10 mph DO NOT come toa complete stop during any of this, once you reach the 10 mph mark speed back up to 60 repeat this 8 good times. After the 8th and final time you just want to drive constant for a good 10 minutes.

And finally ENJOY your new brakes. http://www.240sxforums.com/forums/images/smilies/biggthumpup.gif

http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k312/lucidsnow/BRAKE-UPGRADE.jpg

heres install pics steps on 240