any do-it-yourself tips on replacing front brake pads on a 97 SE, also is it worth it to go Maxxis or what is the least expensive alternative?

 

its easy to do. get a haynes manual.

 

1. The first DIY tip is to read the stickies
2. That would have led you here www.motorvate.ca, where you will find all the instructions you need for doing your front brakes.
3. You would have also found http://maxmods.dyndns.org, where you will find all the information you need about the various pads and rotors available.

Cheers.

 

I did my front pads and rotors a few months ago. I found it relatively easy. I bought the least expensive pads (Albany semi-metallic) that Autozone had for my 97 Maxima. I've been satisfied with the performance, though I think these pads have more fade than the ones I replaced..

Problems I encountered:

Broke my box-end wrench on the guide pin bolt
(got a more sturdy wrench and then..)
Sheared off the guide pin bolt -- I think it was rusted in place
Had a little trouble getting the pad return springs to stay in place while I reassembled everything.

 

Each wheel has two pads. Take only one out at a time. If you take both pads out and them try to push the pistons back into the caliper, the piston you are not pushing on will come out too far, and will not go back in without urging. (I know)