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Upgrading your Nissan Skyline with a big brake kit can significantly enhance its performance, especially during high-speed driving and competitive racing. This guide will take you through the step-by-step process of installing a big brake kit, ensuring you achieve optimal braking power and safety on the road.
What You Will Need
- Big brake kit (calipers, rotors, pads)
- Brake fluid
- Wrench set
- Jack and jack stands
- Brake cleaner
- Torque wrench
- Protective gear (gloves, goggles)
Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle
Before you begin the installation, ensure that your vehicle is parked on a flat surface. Engage the parking brake and wear your protective gear. Use a jack to lift the front or rear of the car, depending on which brakes you are upgrading, and secure it with jack stands.
Step 2: Remove the Wheel
Using a wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you are working on. Once they are loose, fully remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to expose the brake components.
Step 3: Remove the Existing Brake Components
Locate the brake caliper and remove the bolts securing it to the bracket. Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor. Be cautious not to damage the brake line. Next, remove the rotor by unscrewing any retaining screws if applicable, and slide it off the hub.
Step 4: Install the New Brake Rotor
Clean the hub surface with brake cleaner to ensure a good fit. Place the new rotor onto the hub, aligning it with any retaining screws. Secure it in place if necessary.
Step 5: Install the New Caliper and Brake Pads
Take the new caliper and slide it over the rotor. Ensure that it is aligned correctly with the mounting bracket. Secure the caliper using the bolts you removed earlier. Next, insert the new brake pads into the caliper bracket, ensuring they are positioned correctly.
Step 6: Bleed the Brakes
After installing the new components, it is essential to bleed the brakes to remove any air from the brake lines. Start by filling the brake fluid reservoir with new brake fluid. Then, using a helper or a brake bleeder tool, bleed each brake caliper starting from the furthest caliper from the master cylinder.
Step 7: Reinstall the Wheel
Once the brakes are bled and you have ensured there are no leaks, it’s time to reinstall the wheel. Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and then use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Step 8: Repeat for the Other Side
Repeat the above steps for the other side of the vehicle, ensuring that all components are installed correctly and securely. It is crucial for the performance of your big brake kit that both sides are upgraded simultaneously.
Step 9: Test Drive
After completing the installation, take your Nissan Skyline for a test drive. Start at a low speed and gradually increase your speed to ensure that the brakes are functioning correctly. Listen for any unusual noises and check for any vibrations while braking.
Conclusion
Installing a big brake kit on your Nissan Skyline is a rewarding project that can lead to improved performance and safety. By following these steps carefully, you can ensure a successful installation. Always remember to consult your vehicle’s manual and consider seeking professional help if you are unsure about any step in the process.