How to Change Brake Pads on a 2017 Husqvarna FE350HQ
Shop parts for a 2017 Husqvarna FE350HQ Dirt Bike.Brake system overview for the 2017 Husqvarna FE350HQ
The 2017 Husqvarna FE350HQ uses modern hydraulic disc brakes common to enduro and trail bikes: a lever or pedal actuates a master cylinder, hydraulic fluid travels through a line to the caliper, and the caliper squeezes brake pads against a steel rotor to slow the bike. Key parts you'll touch when changing pads are the brake lever/pedal, master cylinder, hydraulic line, caliper, pads, pad retaining pin or clip, and the rotor.
When to replace brake pads & why it matters
- Reduced braking power or longer stopping distances.
- Squealing or grinding noises when you apply the brake.
- Excessive lever or pedal travel before braking engagement.
- Visible pad material worn thin – less than 1-1.5 mm of friction material is a typical replacement point for dirt use.
- Heat discoloration or scoring on the rotor that suggests aggressive wear.
On the FE350HQ, the engine displacement and enduro-style riding generate repeated braking events in technical terrain, so maintaining pad thickness and consistent lever feel is critical for safety and control.
Tools and prep
- Common tools: metric sockets/wrenches, pliers, flat-head screwdriver, Allen keys, a punch or drift for pin removal if needed.
- Shop supplies: clean rags, isopropyl alcohol or brake cleaner, a small container for fasteners, and new brake pads compatible with the 2017 Husqvarna FE350HQ.
- Support: a solid bike stand that keeps the wheel off the ground. You do not need professional shop gear to do this job safely.
Step-by-step – changing the brake pads
- Position and secure the bike: Place the FE350HQ on a stand so the wheel can spin freely. Block the bike to prevent tipping.
- Assess whether to remove the wheel: On many FE350HQ caliper designs you can change pads with the wheel installed, but removing the wheel gives better access for inspection. If removing the wheel, loosen axle hardware, remove the axle, and slide the wheel out following the usual wheel-removal steps for your bike.
- Locate and remove the retaining hardware: Find the pad retaining pin or clip on the caliper. Use pliers, a punch, or the appropriate hex key to remove the pin and any circlips or spring retainer. Keep parts organized for reassembly.
- Slide out the old pads: Carefully pull the old pads out of the caliper. Note the orientation and any anti-rattle springs or backing plates so you reinstall correct-side pieces the same way.
- Inspect rotor and caliper: With pads removed, rotate the rotor to check for scoring, heat spots, or contamination. Look inside the caliper for debris, excessive corrosion, or leaks around the piston seals.
- Clean the caliper: Use a rag and brake cleaner or isopropyl alcohol to remove mud, grease, and brake dust from the pad pockets and piston face. Don't contaminate new pads with oil or grease.
- Retract the pistons: Use a flat screwdriver or a suitable piston spreader to gently push the piston(s) back into the caliper bore until they are flush. Do this slowly and evenly to avoid damaging seals. If fluid runs back up into the master cylinder, check the reservoir fluid level and top off if needed.
- Install new pads: Place the new pads into the caliper in the same orientation as the originals, including any shims or anti-rattle hardware. Make sure pad backing plates sit squarely in their slots.
- Reinstall retaining pin/clip: Insert the pad pin and secure it with its clip or fastener. Confirm the pin is fully seated and any retaining clips are locked in place.
- Reinstall the wheel (if removed): Fit the wheel back into the forks or swingarm, align the rotor between the pads, insert the axle, and torque axle and pinch bolts to the usual tightness for your bike.
- Restore hydraulic pressure: With the bike back on its wheels, pump the brake lever or press the pedal several times until you feel firm resistance and the pads make contact with the rotor. This sets the initial pad-to-rotor clearance.
- Test the brake lever/pedal travel: Confirm lever travel is normal and there are no odd noises. Check brake fluid level and top if necessary.
Helpful inspection tips while you're in there
- Rotor thickness & surface: Look for deep grooves or a knife-edge lip at the rotor outer diameter. Moderate scoring is okay, but severe grooves shorten pad life and can indicate the need for rotor attention.
- Caliper seals & leaks: Any wetness or fluid on the caliper body or mounting bolts indicates a leaking seal that needs repair beyond pad replacement.
- Caliper mobility: Ensure the caliper slides freely on its pins or guide bolts — sticky calipers cause uneven pad wear.
- Retaining hardware: Confirm pins, clips, and anti-rattle springs are present and secure; a loose pin can lead to pad movement and noise.
- Pad bed & cleanliness: Never touch the friction surface with greasy hands. Clean around the caliper to keep dirt from migrating into the pad area.
Bedding in new pads
Bedding establishes an even transfer layer of friction material onto the rotor. On the FE350HQ, perform 8-12 moderate controlled stops from approximately 15-25 mph down to walking pace, allowing the brakes to cool briefly between groups of stops. Avoid aggressive, repeated emergency stops during the initial bedding cycle. After bedding, verify pedal/lever feel and check for any noise or grabbing.
Final checks and routine maintenance
- After a short test ride, recheck pad retention hardware, axle torque, and lever feel.
- Inspect pads frequently after muddy rides or extended hard trail sessions; dirt and grit accelerate wear.
- Keep spare pads and a clean set of retaining clips in your tool kit so you can change pads in the field if needed.
Why regular pad changes matter
Consistent braking performance affects confidence and control on technical trails and during high-speed enduro sections. Fresh pads provide predictable bite, shorter stopping distances, and more consistent heat management for the rotor – all important for a nimble 350cc enduro machine like the 2017 Husqvarna FE350HQ.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 Husqvarna FE350HQ Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Rotors for a 2017 Husqvarna FE350HQ Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 Husqvarna FE350HQ Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2017 Husqvarna FE350HQ Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Husqvarna FE350HQ Dirt Bike.
Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.
