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MG MGA - Front wheel disc brakes

Earlier I ask about an electrical problem. Now also after sitting for a couple of years the front discs, which had 1500 miles since new, are slightly rusted and discolored. Without taking them off and to a brake shop to refinish, can I remove the tires, spin the wheels/discs by hand and using a fine grade sand paper bring them back to somewhat normal? I'm worried that if I drive it without doing something I might damage the pads. They too only have 1500 miles on them. Any suggestions?

Joe
Joe Wiley

Hi Joe - it is worth using fine wet and dry to try to get rid of surface rust - but any deep pitting will make short work of brake pads - certainly don't use brakes on heavily rusted discs -replacement discs aren't that expensive and fairly easy to fit. good luck - Cam
Cam Cunningham

Thanks Cam

Unfortunately we NOW live in the mountains (back woods) and there is no where for over a hundred miles to take them for dressing them. Also, the last few orders from Moss etc. went back because UPS/Fed Ex couldn't find us. I'll try to sand them as they are not too rusty and have only 1500 miles since new.

Joe
Joe Wiley

Joe,

I have had cars in the MN damp air that have rusted pretty bad over a few years time and we just go out and drive the car. Some after sitting for more then 10, although for hydraulic possible issues, I would be careful if its been that long. The shiny surface will return within a few drives. The first time you step on the brakes, most of the rust will disappear.

-BMC.
BMC Brian McCullough

I pulled the front wheels and sanded the discs using medium grit paper and then to fine paper. Then I sprayed everything with a good brake parts cleaner. They look like new again.

Thanks guys.

Joe
Joe Wiley

I believe it's generally recommended NOT to take a silica based sand paper to the rotors, as it can leave glass particles in the surface. However, if the car stops as expected, that's what counts. Generally water and a steel wool pad can remove light surface rust. Also, no need to worry about the pads, they're there to wear - though you'd wind up washing down everything that got a coating of the rust dust removed from the rotor.
Steve K

This thread was discussed between 08/09/2007 and 10/09/2007

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