Quote:
|
Originally Posted by curve
i changed out my rotors no problem. i am now stuck on retracting the piston so i can put new brake pads in. someone help me!!!
I set the piston compressor up and nothing has happened. do i have to recondition the calipers?
|
The caliper piston develops a ring of rust in front of the seal. This effectively acts as a stop to the piston moving back.
You can buy caliper overhaul kits. However, don't buy anything until you have removed the caliper piston.
Loaded calipers are best bet if car is a keeper and you must do both sides.
Plus, new calipers will carry a warranty and be service free for many years.
Changing the brake fluid is always advisable every two to three years. If though, the rubber dust covers split, the piston will rust within one winter.
I am trying to prevent this by using a synthetic brake grease made by VERSACHEM...thick, sticky, clear grease.
Working in the UK, this problem was very prevalent and most calipers after 8 years on salted roads where shot away with rust.
I use a medium size G cramp to push the pistons back on the front axle
on single piston calipers..
If you take it to the bench to remove the piston, be very careful about applying compressed air to blow the piston out.
Use a lot of shop cloths to cover the complete caliper and keep fingers and body parts clear of the piston.
If you do not feel competent to overhaul with a kit, buy rebuilt or new units.
It is very difficult to get all the rust out of the seal groove and make the new seal fluid poof.
any rusting to the piston that lifts or opens the chrome finish, is cause for new calipers.