Porsche 955 352 401 31 Disc Brake Rotor Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This instruction manual provides essential information regarding the Porsche 955 352 401 31 Disc Brake Rotor. It covers product compatibility, safety guidelines, installation considerations, maintenance procedures, and technical specifications. Proper installation and maintenance are crucial for optimal vehicle performance and safety.

2. Product Overview

Figure 1: Porsche 955 352 401 31 Disc Brake Rotor

The image above displays the Porsche 955 352 401 31 Disc Brake Rotor. This component is designed for the rear axle of specific Porsche Cayenne models. It features a grey central hub with multiple bolt holes for secure mounting and a silver braking surface. A label indicating 'Made in Germany' is visible on the hub, signifying its origin. The rotor is a critical part of the vehicle's braking system, working in conjunction with brake calipers and pads to slow down and stop the vehicle.

3. Compatibility

This disc brake rotor (Part Number 955 352 401 31) is compatible with the rear axle of the following Porsche Cayenne models:

• Porsche Cayenne (955)
  • 3.2L V6 REAR
  • 4.5L S REAR
  • 4.5L Turbo REAR
• Porsche Cayenne (957)
  • 3.6L V6 REAR
  • 4.8L S REAR
  • 4.8L GTS REAR
  • 3.0L DIESEL MKII REAR
• Porsche Cayenne (958)
  • V6 3.0L DIESEL REAR
  • V6 3.0L HYBRID REAR
  • V8 4.8L S REAR

Important Note: This rotor is specifically for vehicles equipped with 430mm/17 inch discs and either BLACK calipers (option code: I1KW) or SILVER calipers (option code: I1KY).

4. Safety Information

Working on vehicle braking systems requires specialized knowledge, tools, and safety precautions. Improper installation or maintenance can lead to brake failure, serious injury, or death. Always adhere to the following safety guidelines:

• Professional Installation Recommended: It is highly recommended that this component be installed by a certified automotive technician.
• Vehicle Support: Always use appropriate jack stands to support the vehicle after lifting. Never rely solely on a jack.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety glasses, gloves, and other necessary PPE to prevent injury.
• Brake Fluid: Brake fluid is corrosive. Avoid contact with skin and vehicle paint.
• Torque Specifications: Always tighten fasteners to the manufacturer's specified torque values.
• Bedding-In Procedure: Follow the recommended bedding-in procedure for new brake rotors and pads to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

5. Installation

The installation of a disc brake rotor is a complex procedure. The following steps are a general overview and should be performed by a qualified technician following the specific service manual for your Porsche Cayenne model.

1. Prepare Vehicle: Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and block the wheels. Loosen lug nuts on the wheel to be serviced.
2. Lift and Secure: Lift the vehicle using a hydraulic jack and secure it with jack stands. Remove the wheel.
3. Remove Brake Caliper: Carefully unbolt and remove the brake caliper from its mounting bracket. Do not let the caliper hang by the brake hose; support it with a hanger or wire.
4. Remove Brake Pads: Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
5. Remove Old Rotor: Remove any retaining screws or clips holding the old rotor in place. The rotor may be seized to the hub; use a rubber mallet or penetrating oil if necessary.
6. Clean Hub Surface: Thoroughly clean the wheel hub surface to remove any rust or debris. A clean, flat surface is critical for proper rotor seating.
7. Install New Rotor: Place the new Porsche 955 352 401 31 Disc Brake Rotor onto the wheel hub. Ensure it sits flush against the hub.
8. Install New Brake Pads: Install new brake pads into the caliper bracket. It is highly recommended to replace brake pads when replacing rotors.
9. Reinstall Caliper: Reinstall the brake caliper and tighten its mounting bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
10. Reinstall Wheel: Mount the wheel, hand-tighten lug nuts, lower the vehicle, and then torque the lug nuts to specification.
11. Brake System Check: Pump the brake pedal several times to seat the pads against the rotor before driving. Check brake fluid level.

6. Function and Operation

The disc brake rotor is a crucial component of your vehicle's friction braking system. When the brake pedal is pressed, hydraulic pressure forces the brake calipers to clamp the brake pads against the rotating rotor. This friction converts the vehicle's kinetic energy into heat, slowing down and eventually stopping the vehicle. The design and material of the rotor are engineered to dissipate this heat efficiently and provide consistent braking performance under various conditions.

7. Maintenance

Regular inspection and proper maintenance are essential for the longevity and safe operation of your brake rotors.

• Routine Inspection: Inspect rotors for wear, cracks, grooves, or discoloration during tire rotations or other vehicle services.
• Minimum Thickness: Rotors have a minimum thickness specification. If the rotor wears below this limit, it must be replaced. Consult your vehicle's service manual for specific values.
• Cleaning: Keep rotors free from oil, grease, and brake fluid. Use appropriate brake cleaner if necessary.
• Brake Pad Replacement: Always replace brake pads when replacing rotors. Ensure new pads are compatible with the rotor material.
• Bedding-In: After installation, perform a proper bedding-in procedure to optimize brake performance and prevent premature wear. This typically involves a series of moderate stops from varying speeds without coming to a complete stop, allowing the pads and rotors to mate properly.

8. Troubleshooting

If you experience any of the following symptoms, your brake rotors may require inspection or replacement:

• Vibration or Pulsation: A vibrating or pulsating sensation felt through the brake pedal or steering wheel during braking often indicates warped or unevenly worn rotors.
• Squealing or Grinding Noise: While squealing can be caused by brake pads, a persistent grinding noise often suggests severely worn pads or rotors.
• Reduced Braking Performance: If the vehicle takes longer to stop or requires more pedal effort, it could be a sign of brake system issues, including rotor wear.
• Visible Damage: Deep grooves, cracks, or excessive rust on the rotor surface are clear indicators for replacement.

If any of these symptoms occur, have your vehicle's braking system inspected by a qualified technician immediately.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty Information

For detailed warranty information regarding the Porsche 955 352 401 31 Disc Brake Rotor, please refer to the official Porsche warranty documentation provided with your purchase or consult an authorized Porsche dealership. Warranty terms and conditions typically cover manufacturing defects and may vary based on region and purchase date.

11. Support

Should you require further assistance, technical support, or have questions regarding the Porsche 955 352 401 31 Disc Brake Rotor, please contact:

• An authorized Porsche dealership or service center.
• The official Porsche customer service channels.

Always provide the full part number (955 352 401 31) and your vehicle's VIN when seeking support to ensure accurate assistance.