I've got mid-70's GM disc brakes bolted to the straight axle on my '56 Effie. Unfortunately, the rolling ch***is spent a few months outside under a tarp, and the rotors have a nice healthy coat or rust on 'em. I know it's the nature of the beast that rotors rust, but I'm not seating fresh brake pads on these gnarly rotors. What's the best way to clean these puppies up? Blast 'em? Have 'em turned at the parts store?
Heck, just put the pads on and run 'em, won't hurt a thing. A couple applications of the brake and they'll be clean.
Hit 'em lightly with a scouring pad. That should do it unless the rotor's pitted, then you need to have them turned.
if they are straight, only surface rust....wire wheel them with your hand grinder. then scuff with 80 grit paper and go for it! dave
The rotors aren't going to ruin your pads. That's hogwash. Put 'em and and do a couple long gentle stops. I've had rotors that would rust overnight given the right conditions.
A scotchbrite pad will get it loose, then wash and dry (great idea with the leafblower! I have had to steal the hairdryer!)
As stated, just drive on 'em and make a couple of easy stops. ALL rotors rust if not driven on over time. Unlees the car has lay in a swamp for 10 years, you'll be fine. Jan
the subframe under my 57 sat for a couple months outside before i put it under my truck. when i got back from my first drive they were nice and shiny. just run it and forget about it.
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