Modern Vespa

About to do the front brakes on my MP3 500. Doing a bit of research reveals differing opinions about the whether or not the application of high temp moly or copper grease...etc. to the backing plates of the new pads is necessary. Just wonder what folks around here are doing...

I always use copper grease on the back of the pads.
Prevents them from rusting and most of all it eliminates the change of the brakes squeaking.
Don't forget to also grease the sliding parts of the brake calibers, so the pads can move correctly.

FYI I used to be a car mechanic and on all brake work I used copper grease on sliding/turning parts.
It prevent's stuff from locking up and makes an easy replacement when the pads wear out one day.

I apply a little even if the pads come with anti-squeal shims. The brakes will always squeal to a greater or lesser extent without it.

Don't forget to thoroughly clean, smooth and apply a smear of copper-grease to the locating pin as well.

So I just finished up and it all went OK except for something strange I noticed. The 2 bolts that hold the caliper in place are different for each wheel. The caliper on the right has what I think are the factory bolts with 6mm allen openings. The ones on the left have rounded heads and have 5mm allen openings. My guess is that a previous mechanic (I've had several) that worked on my bike messed them up and found whatever he had lying around to replace them.

It's like a couple weeks ago when I was replacing my belt and putting Dr Pulley sliders in that I discovered a broken fin on the outer variator pulley half. No doubt someone either dropped it or broke it while trying to break the variator nut free the wrong way...

I've had the bike for almost 5 years now and this year is the first year that I'm doing most of my own service to save money. I'm learning a lot and I want to say how much I appreciate everyones help and knowledge on this forum! Thanks!