1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, proper break-in, and routine maintenance of your new Can-Am OEM front brake pads (Part No. 715900379). Adhering to these guidelines will ensure optimal braking performance and longevity of the brake system on your Can-Am vehicle. This product is designed for demanding riding conditions, including mud and dunes, and is built for durability.
2. Vehicle Compatibility
These front brake pads are compatible with the following Can-Am UTV models and years:
- 2016-2020 Can-Am Defender HD8
- 2016-2020 Can-Am Defender HD10
- 2017-2020 Can-Am Defender HD5
- 2017-2020 Can-Am Defender Max HD8
- 2017-2020 Can-Am Defender Max HD10
- 2018-2020 Can-Am Maverick X3
- 2018-2020 Can-Am Maverick X3 Max
Always verify the part number against your vehicle's specifications before installation.
3. Safety Information
WARNING:
- Brake system work requires specialized knowledge and tools. If you are not confident in your ability to perform this installation safely, consult a qualified technician.
- Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and gloves, when working on your vehicle.
- Ensure the vehicle is securely supported on a level surface using jack stands before beginning any work. Never rely solely on a jack.
- Brake fluid is corrosive. Avoid contact with skin and painted surfaces.
- After installation, pump the brake pedal several times to ensure proper brake pressure before operating the vehicle. Test brakes at low speed in a safe area.
4. Package Contents
Verify that your package contains the following items:
- One (1) set of Can-Am OEM Front Brake Pads (Part No. 715900379) for one wheel. (Typically, brake pads are sold per axle, meaning two sets are needed for both front wheels).
Image 1: Top view of two Can-Am OEM front brake pads. These semi-metallic pads feature multiple friction segments and a metal backing plate.
5. Setup and Installation
The following steps outline the general procedure for replacing front brake pads. Specific steps may vary slightly depending on your vehicle model. Refer to your vehicle's service manual for detailed instructions.
Required Tools:
- Jack and Jack Stands
- Wheel Lug Wrench
- Brake Caliper Socket/Wrench Set
- C-Clamp or Brake Caliper Piston Compressor
- Wire Brush
- Brake Cleaner
- High-Temperature Brake Grease
- Torque Wrench
Installation Steps:
- Prepare the Vehicle: Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and block the rear wheels. Loosen the front wheel lug nuts slightly.
- Lift and Secure: Jack up the front of the vehicle and place it securely on jack stands. Remove the front wheel.
- Access Brake Caliper: Locate the brake caliper. Depending on your model, you may need to remove two caliper guide pin bolts to swing the caliper open or remove the entire caliper.
- Remove Old Pads: Once the caliper is accessible, carefully slide out the old brake pads. Note their orientation.
- Inspect and Clean: Inspect the brake rotor for excessive wear, scoring, or cracks. Clean the caliper and caliper bracket thoroughly with a wire brush and brake cleaner. Ensure caliper guide pins move freely. Lubricate guide pins with high-temperature brake grease if necessary.
- Compress Caliper Piston: Use a C-clamp or brake caliper piston compressor to slowly push the caliper piston(s) back into the caliper body. This creates space for the new, thicker brake pads. Monitor the brake fluid reservoir to prevent overflow.
- Install New Pads: Install the new Can-Am OEM brake pads into the caliper bracket. Ensure they are seated correctly and the friction material faces the rotor.
- Reassemble Caliper: Reinstall the brake caliper over the new pads and rotor. Secure the caliper guide pin bolts and torque them to the manufacturer's specifications (refer to your vehicle's service manual).
- Reinstall Wheel: Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower Vehicle: Lower the vehicle to the ground and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications in a star pattern.
- Pump Brakes: Before driving, pump the brake pedal repeatedly until a firm pedal feel is achieved. Check the brake fluid level and top off if necessary.
Image 2: Close-up view of the friction material side of two Can-Am OEM front brake pads. Observe the distinct segments of the semi-metallic material.
Image 3: Rear view of two Can-Am OEM front brake pads, showing the metal backing plates and mounting tabs.
6. Operating (Brake Pad Break-In Procedure)
Proper break-in (bedding-in) of new brake pads is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. Follow these steps:
- Find a safe, open area where you can accelerate and brake without interruption.
- Accelerate to approximately 30 mph (50 km/h) and apply moderate braking pressure to slow down to about 5 mph (8 km/h). Do not come to a complete stop.
- Repeat this process 8-10 times, allowing a short cool-down period between each stop. Avoid heavy braking during this phase.
- After the initial 8-10 stops, drive for several minutes without braking to allow the pads and rotors to cool completely.
- Perform 2-3 harder stops from approximately 40 mph (65 km/h) down to 10 mph (16 km/h). Again, do not come to a complete stop.
- Allow the brakes to cool completely for at least 15-20 minutes before normal operation.
During the break-in period, avoid sudden, hard braking or prolonged braking (e.g., riding the brakes down a long hill).
7. Maintenance
Regular inspection and maintenance of your brake system are essential for safety and performance.
- Routine Inspection: Inspect brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels at least every 1,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Check for uneven wear, cracks, or excessive thinning of the brake pads.
- Brake Fluid: Ensure brake fluid is at the proper level and is clean. Consult your vehicle's manual for recommended brake fluid type and replacement intervals.
- Cleaning: If operating in muddy or dusty conditions, periodically clean brake components with brake cleaner to remove debris that can affect performance and accelerate wear.
- Pad Replacement: Replace brake pads when the friction material wears down to the minimum thickness specified by your vehicle manufacturer, or if you notice reduced braking performance, squealing, or grinding noises.
8. Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Squealing/Grinding Noise | New pads not properly bedded-in, worn pads, debris between pad and rotor, improper installation. | Perform break-in procedure. Inspect pads for wear. Clean brake components. Recheck installation. |
| Reduced Braking Performance | Improper break-in, air in brake lines, contaminated pads, worn pads/rotors. | Perform break-in procedure. Bleed brake lines. Inspect for fluid leaks. Replace worn components. |
| Vibration During Braking | Warped rotors, uneven pad wear. | Inspect and replace rotors if warped. Ensure proper pad installation. |
| Brake Pedal Feels Spongy | Air in brake lines, low brake fluid, faulty master cylinder. | Bleed brake lines. Check brake fluid level and leaks. Consult a technician for master cylinder issues. |
If you experience persistent issues, consult a certified Can-Am service technician.
9. Specifications
- Part Number: 715900379
- Material: Semi-Metallic
- Auto Part Position: Front, Right (Note: Typically sold as a set for one wheel, requiring two sets for both front wheels)
- Vehicle Service Type: UTV
- Specification Met: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)
10. Warranty and Support
For information regarding the warranty of your Can-Am OEM brake pads, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your purchase or contact your authorized Can-Am dealer. For technical support or further assistance, please visit the official Can-Am website or contact their customer service department.
Can-Am Official Website: www.can-am.brp.com
