Brake Pad Shims- To Reuse Or Not To Reuse

[tjc73]

I'm about to replace the rear rotors and pads on my 1997 ES300 but my pads did not come with replacement shims. Since I hate spending money I don't absolutely have to, I was hoping to reuse the shims currently on my car. If they're completely destroyed, I will of course go out and buy new ones, but if they look good, I was hoping to reuse them after spraying them with brake squeal goop. The only reason I ask is simply because many people on other forums say, "Absolutely, go ahead and use the old ones. I always do and have never had a problem," while others say, "NEVER USE OLD SHIMS!!!" (usually just like that- all caps and three exclamation points). I'm wondering why some people are so adamant about replacing shims (and these people are in the minority- it's around 10 to 1 in favor of reusing old ones). Shims don't seem like a safety item- more just something to reduce noise.

Any opinions would be much appreciated.

Also, does anyone know how big the C-clamp should be in order to compress the pistons? I have a 3-inch C-clamp and I have a feeling it's too small. Would a 6-inch do it?

Thanks in advance.

[1990LS400]

Reuse the old shims -- I have and have never had a problem. I've got lazy and now let an indie Lexus repair shop do brake jobs for us -- they reuse the shims.

C-Clamp? I've always used a crowbar to compress calipers! Seriously, I'm not kidding.

[tjc73]

Thanks for the advice. I'll definitely take a crowbar to those pistons! Reusing shims+using a crowbar=more cash in my wallet.

[eatingupblacktop]

Unless the shims are distorted beyond recognition (which can happen from the heat when calipers seize), clean (even sand/scrape off separating/blistered layers) and reuse. Make sure you apply the grease appropriately. Something I always do is to bleed the fluid from the calipers when compressing the pistons rather than sending the fluid back up the lines. Fluid closest to the pistons gets cooked and should be replaced. If you find you need to use a C clamp because they're stiff, then you might want to service the piston first. They should slide in with relatively little effort. A screw driver with a block of wood/dowel should do the trick easily.

[Sexus ES300]

I re-used the shims on my front brakes and they squeaked like hell so i had to soak everything in some anti squeak material. I bought thermal quiet pads and the shims didnt fit since the pades have two raised areas where the caliper sits, so when it came around to change the back i didnt re-use the shims i just went shimless and no squeaks what so ever. Im probably gonna go ahead and remove the shims off the front since the backs are working fine.

[tjc73]

Thanks for the replies! I think bleeding the brake fluid while compressing the pistons makes a lot of sense. I'm sure if you do it properly (carefully), no air will be introduced into the lines. Going shim-less is always an option. I'll have to see how my new pads fit. Again, many thanks.