How difficult is it to replace the brake pads on an 08 Ultra with ABS? I've got a service manual and it doesn't look too bad. Any advice would be appreciated.

 

Very easy, courtesy of Howard at MM, clicky HERE

 

I replaced mine on my 09. w/abs..front only..havent had to do the rear.. (wouldnt think it would be much different) really simple.. just remove caliper.. remove screan, remove the retaining bolt, press pads out,(expand pistons in caliper) remove the pads,, then install the new pads,, reverse removel... I used some 60 grit sand paper to scuff up the rotor,, only on the pad rubing surface..

 

Copied that for later, thank you

 

So why does the instructions that came with the rear brakes say "Dealer Installation is required for vehicles equipped with ABS brakes"?

 

My '08 Ultra has ABS and I have replaced both front and rear pads as well as bled the system...as suggested above, pad replacement is very easy.

As for dealer suggested installation, I believe that applies only when the actual brake lines are disconnected or removed which is not necessary with pad replacement.

As a tip, clean the pistons real well before pushing them back in.

Good luck!

 

Started to change out the rear brake pads...didn't get very far into it.

Manual says to remove the caliper...so after remove the retaining clip for the ABS line from the brake line, then removing the 2 caliper bolts...attempted to lift it of the rotor. Moves freely, but with the new wide tire in the rear...the caliper hits the rim before it is clear of the rotor. I could probably compress the pistons to get it off, but after new pads are inserted..it would be very difficult to get back into postions.

I though about loosing the rotor attaching bolts to give the rotor some movement...but with limited access due to exhaust and shocks..decided against that.

Any ideas or techniques that I'm overlooking? Thanks.

 

I did just what you suggested,compress pistons and went back on very easy.

 

Pull the retaining clip and pin that goes through both pads then knock out the inside pad. the caliper will then rotate right out towards you.

After you push the pistons back in and install the new pads there is enough room to just rotate the caliper back over the rotor. Easy.

Got that from a forum member when I replaced my rear pads and had the same problem.

Forgot who told me this but thanks again.

PS: It was HDV-GLIDE. Only pull the pin back far enough to release the inside pad.

 

to JSK5150 & Smithbrl -- thanks for the tip...I'll give it a try tomorrow!