w123 front break pad install
 

hello folks.
need some help here...I'm trying to change the front brake pads on an 85 300TD w123, I'm able to remove the springs, and sensors, and able to remove one pad, and install new one, but the other pad is too thick. i cant seem to push the piston back far enough for the new pad. I've tried it with the caliper installed, and removed, and by using a clamp. I've removed all the fluid, didn't help. can't move the piston. any suggestions?

If the surface of the piston is past the surface of the casting of the caliper and it will not go back in then it is time to replace the caliper.

I would be thinking the pads are wrong first. Maybe try a different brand.

did you clamp one piston,while pressing the other in with channel locks?

That, and also, is this just one side doing this or is it both sides (of the car, not the caliper)?

thanks for the replies.
yes, it only affects one side of the caliper (pass side), i put a new break shoes in the other side. (same caliper) i also was able to install new shoes in the other caliper (driver side) w/o any trouble. something about that caliper.

Ok, now that I read your post more thoroughly, it's clearly not a pads issue. I can't think of any reason why the piston should not retract. You may want to remove it with compressed air or by attaching back to the brake hose and using fluid pressure. Then you can inspect and clean.

Are the calipers the same brand/manufacturer left and right on the same axle?

Did you use brake pad shims?

I hope you didn't brake anything on your breaks

the disc is not thick its just the caliper is not resting in its place . replace your caliper ,, if you dont you will experience a disturbing vibration allover your car

oh sorry i ment the piston ,, i though the english name for it was a caliper ! stupid me.