Brake Retainer Clips?

[jmack]

Ok guys, bought my brake pads the other day. I have to say, I won't do this again. My father was helping me, and in the process, he bent this stupid thing:



So the clip was SCRAPING against the rotor yesterday and this morning. Finally this evening, I was able to get the wheel off and check it out. I finally realized the thing was bent to all hell and wouldn't stay in place. My question is this: Does this thing HAVE to be replaced?, or can I just leave it out? Help!

[ElectricBlueGT]

jmack,

You need to replace the shims. It will stop the pad from rocking in the caliper and prevent uneven pad wear and noise. The shims should have been in the package with your new pads, unless you bought Mopar Value Line pads. You can get the shims for ~$10 (package of 4) from your dealer.

If you have a GT, you can only get the shims from the dealer, as I do not know of a GT pad manufacturer that inserts the proper shim. The N/A and GT use the same pads, but the GT has a wider shim since the caliper is wider.

Scott

[jmack]

This isn't going good. I have tried every parts store and DEALER in the Knoxville TN area, and they do not have these stupid things. The only way I can get them from the dealer is to buy a "brake pad kit." which costs 150+. Does anyone here have any suggestions? Im at my wits end. At this point, I am just thinking that I am going to have to take it to my dealer wednesday and just pay them to have my pads put on.

[quicksilverdon]

Can't remember seeing shims when I replaced my pads...[:I] (oldtimers)
N/A and turbo use same pads??

[jmack]

See, when I went to the part store this morning before work, the guy said "most people dont even use these anymore" so thats what led me to just taken this one out and not worrying about driving. My question also is is this going to be safe for me to drive? I found a place that said they could order them for me but it could take about a week. So, I guess my question is,
1. Are these really necessary REALLY?
2. Does anyone know the part # or anything?
3. Can I drive safely until i find them?

[jmack]

Ok update: friend at the local parts store, said that I didn't have to use the shim, as long as I used the Anti Squeak spray. the adhesive type spray that keeps the shoes in place so they dont rattle around. Will keep everyone updated.

[ElectricBlueGT]

jmack,

Your dealer's (or any Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep) parts counterperson should be able to locate the shim part numbers. Your VIN number will lead them to the proper part number for the shims.

Remember, you should not use the anti-squeak spray on the inboard pad (the pad that touches the caliper piston).

QSD,

Yes, the GT and N/A use the same pads. Only the shims are different.

Scott

[jmack]

Ok guys, I just am over it. I just don't trust using the squeak spray. Surely to god there must be a part that one can order. I think the best bet is to take the car in on my day off on Wednesday and just let them fix it at this point. Do you think they will use my brake pads?

[ElectricBlueGT]

jmack,

Do you have a naturally aspirated PT or a turbo?

Scott

[quicksilverdon]

quote:Originally posted by ElectricBlueGT


QSD,

Yes, the GT and N/A use the same pads. Only the shims are different.

Scott

I shoulda swapped the ceramic pads out of my '02 to my '05 then. (but I guess the Limited would be guaranteed to be the same pads).
By the way - I love your sig - I use that all the time at work when upper management gets "analysis paralysis"....