2003 GMC Sierra 1500 HD Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

Brake Lines & Linings

Remove one of the front wheels and inspect the brake disc, caliper and linings.

Do not allow any oil or grease on the linings. It is recommended that linings be replaced in sets when worn or damaged.

If the caliper is cracked or fluid leakage through the casting is evident, it must be replaced as a unit.

Brake Roughness

The most common cause of brake chatter on disc brakes is a variation in thickness of the disc. If roughness or vibration is encountered during highway operation or if pedal pumping is experienced at low speeds, the disc may have excessive thickness v...

Disassemble

• Place accumulator compressor tool No. J-26889, or equivalent, around end of accumulator.
• Install nut onto stud as in. Fig. , then depress accumulator with a C-clamp.
• Remove retainer by using a punch.
• Release C-clamp and remove accumulator compressor tool.
• Remove accumulator, O-ring, retainer, plug and spring,. Fig. .
• Remove retainer, output pushrod, baffle, piston return spring and retainer.
• Cut off eyelet of pedal rod, then remove boot.
• Remove nut, bracket and bolts, then separate cover from housing.
• Remove piston assembly and seals.
• Remove spool valve, then the accu...

When working on or around brake assemblies, care must be taken to prevent breathing asbestos dust, as many manufacturers incorporate asbestos fibers in the production of brake linings. During routine service operations, the amount of asbestos dust from brake lining wear is at a low level because of a chemical breakdown during use and a few precautions will minimize exposure.. Do not sand or grind brake linings unless suitable local exhaust ventilation equipment is used to prevent excessiv...

Removal

• Siphon ^2/3 of the brake fluid from master cylinder.
• Raise and support vehicle.
• Remove tire and wheel assembly.
• Compress caliper pistons until they bottom in bores using suitable clamp,. Fig. .
• Disconnect brake hose at caliper by removing inlet fitting bolt.
• Remove mounting bolts and caliper.

Inspection

Should it become required to remove the caliper for installation of new components, clean components in denatured alcohol, wipe dry using lint-free cloths. Blow out drilled passages and holes using compressed air. Inspect dust boots for punctures or tears. If punctures or tears ar...

General System

• Inspect components for damage or unusual wear. Replace as required.
• Inspect backing plate mounting bolts and ensure they are tight.
• Inspect wheel cylinders. Excessive fluid indicates cup leakage and need for wheel cylinder replacement. Slight amount of fluid is always present and is considered normal, acting as lubricant for cylinder pistons.
• Inspect adjuster screw operation. If satisfactory, lightly lubricate adjusting screw and washer with suitable brake lube. If operation is unsatisfactory, replace.
• Clean rust and dirt from shoe contact surfaces on backing plate using fi...