Brakes!

[zanos]

So im changing my front brakes today(rotors,pads),everything going fine,until brake pads installation.The caliper wont open to let me fit the brake pads,and i tried everything to push it open.what should i do???I havent removed the caliper yet.............should i remove it and try force it open?

[First Gen Z]

There is a tool for pressing the piston into the caliper. You must remove the caliper to use it. You don't need to remove the fluid line. Some parts stores will loan you the tool if you buy from them.

[Ed]

You might consider rebuilding the caliper since your having trouble with them. If the piston has any surface rust they will stick in the bore. Usually causing the brakes to wear uneven. A clear sign is one pad being thinner than it's partner. These brakes are over 30 years old and chances are the piston needs to be cleaned and the O-ring replaced. Never disassemble the two halves of the caliper or it will leak. You might also consider getting some remanufacured calipers. Remember that brake fluid is corrosive it will desolve the paint from any surface it comes in contact with. SO when your done wash every surface with plenty of water.

Good luck

[bob m]

Zanos

You need to remove the calipers. I use a large C clamp and compress the pistons. The pistons should slide in smoothly until they bottom, don't force them. I leave the old pad on and use it rather than place the c clamp on the piston.

Bob M

[LanceM]

I havent removed the caliper yet.............should i remove it and try force it open?

Curious minds want to know, how did you get the old pads out without taking off the caliper???

I second the large C clamp method.

[MrMarcDude]

you get the pads out by removing a cotter pin from one side of the two sliders, slide them out then just pull out the springs, and pads. The easiest brakepad removal i have ever seen.