9th Oct 2002, 14:39

I currently drive a 99 vette and have had chronic problems with warped rotors. Over the years I've had three sets of new rotors, each of which have been turned once.

As its' been explained to me from a certified, GM employed, vette guru, the problem seems to stem from the calipers. Since the calipers are of the 4 piston design, it is common upon releasing the brake that not all 4 pistons release fully. This puts the pad in light, but constant contact with rotor. The rotor never gets a chance to fully cool while your on the gas and then once you hit the brakes and come to a stop, the calipers act as a heat sink and the rotors cool unevenly. Though the rotors are tough and can handle extreme heat; over time they are not invincible.

Repair protocol dictates a check for this behavior when the dealer fixes this problem. However since the problem is intermittent, it may not be caught.

If anyone knows of a solution, please inform.

Thanks.

Chris.adam@beer.com.

4th May 2011, 14:04

The mechanic that just did my 4 new tires installed by hand, and hand torqued to spec with a click wrench preset. I have had no issues. They also have rebuild kits for the TPMs vs buy new ones. My sensors are essentially like new. Any nice expensive wheels installed at a better tire store does this if you ask. If you have to pay a bit more vs an air impact tool on your high dollar rims, it's worth it. The torque spread on an impact is typically plus or minus 20 percent anyway.

The other issue I worry about more so is lifting your C5s up without the 4 correct lifting pads. The lift spots on the sides are so small that if the lift touched the fiberglass body panels, it's a very expensive repair. Dealers and Corvette suppliers sell these "pucks" Typically around $100 for a set. Mine stay in my car at all times, and when on the road especially. Good luck.

2nd Aug 2013, 05:01

I have a 1998 LS1 Convertible that I still have to this day. Many buy newer Vettes afterwards, and like this second year C5 so much they keep it as well. And just keep upgrading it.

This is a great extremely reliable year, and I haven't had any issues. I replaced a couple of modules, belts, tires, gel batteries, newer GM factory rims and upgrades. Mine still gets many first place trophies at shows.

If you take a trip with the overdrive, you get close to 30 MPG on the interstate. The aerodynamics and low RPM enables the car to achieve this easily at 55-60 MPH. Very smooth, easy entry on the redesigned C5s, and nice options.

This is a car that should be on your wish list before you die. The ones I know with 2 usually also own a newer Z06 or Grand Sport Coupe as well. If you are shopping LT1 C4s, hold off until you can find a low mileage C5 out there. It is definitely a better choice with the complete redesign, and to get the LS1 motor. Plus they are very fast. Good luck!

2nd Aug 2013, 09:36

I have had zero issues with over-torque. I bought snap on torque wrenches and keep one in each car in their cases.

If you have tire work, go to a quality tire and brake service center. If you have to pay 4 bucks extra per wheel, do so. No air impacts. I have some very expensive rims on my cars as well. There is no torque control with air impacts at plus or minus 20 percent accuracy. It's your car so you have to be be adamant about it. I typically go over each wheel a second time 50 miles later to check torque tightness again.

It is good to join a Corvette club and discuss where others take their cars in the club. I enjoy tech nights and know a lot more about mine. You can just as easily warp rotors on other makes with air impacts, so this advice should help others across the board.