I've lost count of the number of times that I've taken the M5 rims off. This would have been a whole lot easier with the car in the air, from several vantage points.
The brakes seem good now, AFAIK. I replaced the hydraulic module which is attached to the electronic module by six torx screws. The entire assembly is attached to the car by a bracket. I then bled the brakes - yay, fluid coming out of the driver side rear ! - and took it for a spin. Still a bit spongy and since the replacement pads had arrived in the meantime, I did the bleeding again and replaced the pads. The existing pads were nearing end of life so timing was good.
Getting the rear calipers back into place is a real bear. The bottom mount bolt is very hard to align. From below, if it was on a hoist, you could see it and this would be easier. As it was, I'm kneeling and squatting with my head inside the wheel well; very difficult. The front calipers align a lot easier, thank goodness, because they weigh a ton.
I did the first round of bleeding by myself, using the "one man" tool (hose and container) that I bought for $10. Sandy helped me with the second, wheel by wheel, so that I could discern when there weren't any bubbles any more. All told, from my first work with the bad module to the end, I went through about 3 quarts of brake fluid. It's running nice and clear and almost colorless now !
I'm going to be due for a replacement of the rear tires soon. I've got some room above the treadwear indicators but not a lot. I'll likely replace all four at the same time. They'll probably last this season and be a Fall 2019 purchase.
I have to call my repair guy today and tell him that I don't need the brake work but still need the differential seal replaced.
My original plan was to ride yesterday but timing was good for this work as it rained a lot of the day. Today is supposed to be dry and I'll get out with the bike, the Litespeed, and start breaking in that new saddle (or breaking me in !).
We went to Publix in the afternoon (we don't usually go together) and it was a zoo. Something about Thanksgiving in the wind, I suppose, was bringing people into the grocery store. It's only closed for one day - tomorrow - but you'd think that we have a snowstorm or hurricane on the way. Tomorrow almost everything is closed, other than convenience stores and, of course, internet shopping :). Perhaps Walmart is open, I don't know, or perhaps they open at 6pm for Black Friday. You won't catch me in a store on Friday !
Onward !
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