Should I machine rotors?

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Jun 3, 2009 | 08:18 AM

Schlitz-C6

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Heel & Toe

Joined: May 2009

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From: Mount Pleasant Michigan

Should I machine rotors?

I just bought a 2005 Z51 and the brakes are squeaking. Thanks to this forum I found there was a bulletin from GM on it and I am getting the dealer to replace the pads free of charge. The bulletin states that you do not need to turn the rotors but the bulletin is from July 2005.

The car has 24K miles and I feel nothing in pedal that leads me to believe I need to run the rotors. The dealer of course wants me to do so but I dont know what the right choice is.

What do you guys think I should do?

Thanks a lot!!

Jun 3, 2009 | 08:33 AM

Walt White Coupe

Race Director

Joined: Jun 2005

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From: Phila Suburbs 2023 C8 & 2013 650ix

As long as the stopping surface is relatively smooth with no deep grooves then there is no need to turn the rotors.

Jun 3, 2009 | 11:43 AM

TEXHAWK0

Le Mans Master

Joined: Sep 2003

Posts: 8,847

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From: Longview Texas

If there is a lip on the edge of the rotors, you might consider letting the dealer at least turn the rotors to remove that. If the rest of the surface is smooth and without any major grooves, take the minimum amount off the rest of the rotor face.

Jun 3, 2009 | 11:52 AM

TheKomoman

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Joined: Jun 2004

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From: Skippack PA

St Jude Donor '13

Quote:

Originally Posted by Walt White Coupe

As long as the stopping surface is relatively smooth with no deep grooves then there is no need to turn the rotors.

Machining the rotors can potentially shorten their life so I would not do it unless you see the deep scores or are feeling pulsing in the pedal. When you turn 'em you remove metal therefore reduce life, also the heat generated during the turning can change the properties of the metal and shorten life that way.

If it ain't broke, no reason to fix!

Jun 3, 2009 | 02:13 PM

Schlitz-C6

Thread Starter

Heel & Toe

Joined: May 2009

Posts: 24

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From: Mount Pleasant Michigan

Thanks a lot everyone. I figured if the pedal felt good with no ushing back or pulsation I should wait till the next time I do the pads. Plus it will make the visit cost free as the warranty is paying for the pads.

Which with me driving will be about 1 year, maybe 2.

For those out there reading, I had complained about the squeak and the dealer told me not to worry about it, this forum informed me of the bulletin and I had to point it out to the dealer, whom still tried to talk me out of it. Why I do not know............

Thanks again!