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This problem was posted months ago and now I know what was going on.
Link to original: https://www.ericthecarguy.com/kunena/8-Service-and-Repair-Questions-Answered-Here/60278-brake-rotor-build-up-centric-posi-quietAfter installing Moog lower ball joints, I greased them multiple times and over-greased them every time. My splash shields on both sides are rusted out. Grease got on the rotor, the rest is history. So here’s the deal.
Is there a detergent or cleaning agent that will remove this residue from the rotor? They’re super smooth, but aesthetically and probably mechanically, this isn’t working for me. The best solution I found was to heat them up over a flame or in an oven, throw them in cold water, then start scrubbing. It’s funny because rotors don’t warp, unlike a kitchen pan. So why isn’t there a way to lift that ugly or untrue rotor’s residue off its surface without resurfacing? Never buying rotors for my car again.
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A can of brake clean and a rag will remove any grease from the rotor
I’d be more concerned about grease embetting on the brake pads.If your concern about the discoloration appearance (as long as it doesn’t affect function, why bother )
You can use some sand paper and scuff the surface if it is that important to you.As to greasing your ball joints…
Once a year should be fine, and try wiping off any excess grease to prevent the issue in the first place.Thanks for replying nightflyr. These pads are pretty darn new and they’ve finally started grabbing my old rotors I put back on 6 days ago. Low and behold, the rotors caught grease again and are showing the same characteristics that my new rotors did. I’m replacing both splash shields ASAP and before I install the new rotors I took off, I’m essentially draining the ball joints (moog). This has been a nightmare.
As far as embedded grease on ceramic pads go. Is it safe to aggressively hand sand the top layer of the pads then move to a fine grit to finish? I’m only asking this prep question because I’m attempting to rule out braking vibration issues at certain speeds before I tackle intermittent vibration issues without braking between 65-95mph.
Never needed to service brake pads that way before, If I suspected the pads to be faulty I just replace them.
But, I imagine that you could run over the surface lightly, just be cautious to keep them flat and even.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet.
Service the calipers.One other item..
If you see that you have a lot of rust on the calipers..
Might try removing the clips that the brake pads ride in and wire brush them clean before you reassemble.Calipers are fine. It was an odd request about the brake pads. I’ve read that some street racers “scuff” the pads on asphalt for better grip, but that’s a little extreme. I’m with you on running them down lightly and keeping them flat and even. I don’t know how ceramic pads absorb oil and grease, but by the look and feel, they’re hard as a rock so there’s no way they could absorb grease or oil unless they were porous which they’re not. Just looking for a cleaning agent that will get built up deposits off metal and restore glazed/greased-up pads without sanding. It’s not on the internet I’ll tell ya that.
You can try giving the rotors a good cleaning with a degreaser, something as basic as liquid dish soap would work. Rinse thoroughly and give a quick rinse with brake clean.
The pads might be goners. You can try sanding out the effected surface, but if they ever start squeaking for no reason, the friction material is compromised. Friction material generally reacts poorly to any type of oil based contamination.
http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/determining-the-causes-of-vehicle-vibrations
Used Ajax for 30 minutes and still the same although the water turned yellow which is a good sign. Testing out a half a bottle of 91% rubbing alch and hydro peroxide with super hot water. Can’t imagine the results being different.
It worked a little bit although it didn’t have a good reaction to the iron. The whole rotor rusted and was easily cleaned off with a dishwashing sponge. Vinegar next and final try.
Cleaning up any kind of automotive grease or oil is as simple as using mineral spirits. $5 a quart at walmart. Just make sure you use some rags you do not mind ruining. Gasoline works even better but is dangerous and has strong fumes.
For cleaning off light rust – “The works” toilet bowl cleaner does a fine job but be real careful using it. Safety glasses, gloves etc…
If there is hardened deposits on the rotors friction surfaces, maybe try to clean it off with a razor scraper.
After removing grease (which will decrease brake efficiency ), make sure the pads are clean. Install everything. Any ugliness will be forced off the rotors after just a few good brakings.
I appreciate the reply. Mineral spirits is a really good idea! Just got done soaking in watered down distilled vinegar for 40 minutes and the result is amazing.
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