X5 4.8 Front Brake Calipers -Need Advice Please!

[X5alpina]

Decided to replace front brake pads myself today, a small DIY project! However couldnt open the calipers as wasn't sure what key is needed.
Does anyone know what Hex Key (Allen Key) is required to open Front Brake Calipers on E70? (Definitely not the standard 7mm, tried this one and is too small, looks more like 8 or even 9mm).
Please advise!
Thanks!

[ard]

Open the caliper? Hmm. I've never done X5 brakes, but on my other cars (ford, Porsche, BMW, Acura) there is not allen key... just unbolt the caliper BRACKET from the front ..part number 3 in this dwg:
RealOEM.com BMW E70 X5 4.8i Front wheel brake-Brake pad sensor

Many people unbolt the caliper only to find the bracket must come off to change rotors...also, it may be easier to just do the bracket.

Hope this is of some use... Gotta think there is a DIY here too.

A

[X5alpina]

Ard, Thank you for yr reply!
You are of course right, i need a hex/allen key to unbolt Bracket and im guessing it is 9mm but googled it and nothing comes up on the subject, i guess 9mm hex key is not very popular. Thought someone may know...
The DIY guides are only for E53 which requires a 7mm key

Cheers

[ard]

Take a close look, make sure it isn't a torx key...

[Denalio]

#7 in the schematic, if this is the part you refer to, shows a torx bolt.

[Xtony]

Originally Posted by Denalio

#7 in the schematic, if this is the part you refer to, shows a torx bolt.

#7 is just a plastic cap you need to remove to access the caliper bolts which are definitely 7mm hex. Here's my DIY brake pad replacement for an '08 4.8:
http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...t-08-4-8l.html

[ard]

Originally Posted by Xtony

Here's my DIY brake pad replacement for an '08 4.8:

I just KNEW if we blundered about long enough someone would come up with the answer...


A

[soldmystang]

nice write-up Xtony. might i suggest some of this for the guide pins however? CRC SL3303 Synthetic Brake & Caliper Grease, 12 Wt oz - Find Deals & Discounts

[Xtony]

Originally Posted by soldmystang

nice write-up Xtony. might i suggest some of this for the guide pins however? CRC SL3303 Synthetic Brake & Caliper Grease, 12 Wt oz - Find Deals & Discounts

I believe the caliper pins should not be greased, because they pick up more grime which could cause them to bind inside the rubber grommet. I've always just cleaned them and reinstalled them and have never had any caliper issues in 20 years.

[soldmystang]

Originally Posted by Xtony

I believe the caliper pins should not be greased, because they pick up more grime which could cause them to bind inside the rubber grommet. I've always just cleaned them and reinstalled them and have never had any caliper issues in 20 years.

for street use i'm thinking you are probably on the mark. my track car gets more attention to the guide pins for sure however.