I have to change my front rotor tomorrow. I'm I correct in assuming the rivets have to be drilled out to remove it like the rear? I've never tried this so any pointers would be appreciated. Are you looking at the head of the rivet that's about 1/2" dia. on the outside of the rotor? Can they be punched out once the head is removed or do you have to drill it completely out of the rotor? Thanks in advance....

You're in the right place. I usually just drill them all the way out. Use a good quality bit, some spray lube to keep it cool and it really isn't that difficult. As a suggestion, I start with a small bit as close to center as possible (use a center punch to keep the bit from wandering) and work up from there. Also, if you're doing one, it might be a good idea to do both fronts.

Replace bearings and races while you're in there and you're time ahead!

Thanks Dave, it doesn't sound to bad. What diameter are the rivets? The other side looks fine. The outside pad on the drivers side just wore away while the inside pad looked good. Any ideas on what caused that? longhorn29438666.6762037037

I'm not certain what the cause would be, Id check the bearing play first, actually, I'd still install new bearings and races. Keep a check on wear to be sure it doesn't sneak up on you, it could have been a bad pad, maybe gotte soaked from a leaking caliper?

As far as size, I don't recall, look at the back side and go with a little bit smaller drill bit. When you get close to the size of the rivet, it should start spinning in the hole, then you can just pop it out.

I just find these cars amazing at times. Imagine, a rotor that has probably been on for over 30 years. Is that possible?

It's entirely possible! The life of the rotor is more dependent on driving habits and routine maintenance. Change pads before they are too worn and driving habits that don't overheat them. Also keep in mind these cars were designed to perform, so they started out with a heftier rotor in the first place.