thawk97

So, I haven't seen a thread dedicated to this (though the topic is in some other threads).

I changed my rotors today and, like many before me, struggled to get the screws out of the front rotors. My impact wrench couldn't get them, I broke a bit in it, and then stripped them out using a breaker bar. SO, I had to drill them out - wasn't a big deal.

The question is - do I need to go get a set of new ones from the dealer and put them back in? I can't really think of what purpose they serve as they don't exist on the rears and the 5 lugs are holding the rotor in place. Can anyone please tell me if they're necessary and if not, then why they're on the car?

Just need to know if I should go buy them and put them in.

nuke0907

iTrader: (2)

they are there to hold the rotor on when you take your wheels off. you are right the lugnuts will hold it in place. might be a good idea to get new ones anyways. wouldn't be too fun to take your wheel off and see your rotor crash to the ground and get damaged.

dozer

iTrader: (3)

How would the rotors fall to the ground when the brake calipers are holding it in place? DUH!

dozer

iTrader: (3)

Also, the screws are there for manufacturing purposes, you do not need them.

Jon316G

iTrader: (1)

Correct.
And if you have trouble getting those screws out, give it a little heat and it'll easily turn.

invasion08

iTrader: (7)

Or if you have trouble getting the screws out use a Craftsman Impact Driver.

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00947641000P

Optical TDI

iTrader: (2)

Bottom line: you don't need to buy new ones. I don't use mine since they are PITA.

Huey52

iTrader: (2)

A hand impact driver will do the trick. More control (less chance of breakage) than a powered driver.

WD-40 or similar penetrating fluid prior will help as well.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=93481

Jon316G

iTrader: (1)

That'll work too. I first used that on my rotors.
But honestly, I was able to unscrew the bolts with a basic screwdriver after applying heat on another local's car.
It was easier than hitting it with an impact driver... but we both had our cars out during a few winters so our bolts were probably worse that others.

04RX8man

yeah a little wd-40 and impact....but yo don't need them the caliper holds the rotor on when u take the wheel off

04RX8man

yes wd-40 and impact driver should take care of it and u don't need to replace...just basically there for the factory so when they are assembling the car they don't have to worry aqbout the rotors coming off....