2000 Esteem Brake Disc "Set" Screws

sblrog · 06-30-2009, 11:49 PM

Hi all,

I took off my front brake discs to get them machined since they were warped. On each disc, there are (two) small countersunk screws that attach the brake disc to the wheel hub. The torque spec on the screws is 4 ft-lb. After a few days, I checked up on the screws and found that they had worked loose, even though I'm sure I had tightened them way tighter than 4 ft-lb (I didn't know the torque spec until after I was done). In addition, when I bought the car, there was only one screw left on each side, so I suspect the two missing screws worked themselves loose and were lost during the previous ownership.

My question is, what is the point of these screws? Wouldn't the wheel rim (and studs and lug nuts) hold the brake disc onto the hub anyway?

Thanks.

jim_naisium · 07-01-2009, 01:33 AM

My 1999 Esteem only came with one set screw on each side most cars that I have seen that have them only have one, it is there is keep the rotor in place while you are attaching/assembling the brake caliper (it is easier with it than without it), but its real purpose was to keep the rotor from falling off the car while it was traveling down the assembly line at the factory (the wheels are one of the last things that get put on).

To keep it from backing out you will need to use an impact screwdriver and give it one good whack with a hammer, it will not come loose again.

sblrog · 07-01-2009, 11:41 AM

Thank you. Very informative. I actually needed an impact driver initially to loosen the screws (the Phillips head would have stripped otherwise). I think I read about this on your website afterwards.

Shuz Loves Suzi · 08-04-2009, 01:48 PM

just use the biggest phillips head driver you have and tighten it hard. then use the same phillips when removing. just slam the driver with a hammer a few times to shock loose the screw. torque specs are not that important on a brake job. just make sure everything is nice and tight. your not driving an indy car.

fyi rotors are dirt cheap for esteems. don't bother with machining them, just aftermarket replace. check it out, you'll see.