Brake calipers - removing pistons. How?

P

Paxe

New Member
I want to get the pistons out of my front calipers because I need to rebuild them with new rubberseals. How do I remove the pistons? I´ve tried using compressed air, but only one of the smaller ones popped out. The other small one is halfway out, but the big one won´t move. Any suggestions? The pistons look ok, so I don´t want to use brute force, since I´d like to re-use them.
 
Try using the wooden handle to knock it in a bit/even it up.

I have done this in the past, put the end of the handle in and use another handle to knock it in. you will see if the piston moves in any. if it isn't evenly seated it is difficult to get it out.

Another good trick it to leave them fitted to the car, remove the brake pads and pump the pedal this should force them out enough to get a grip on the outside of the piston. if there is a piston you don't want to pop out then leave the pad in and it can't come out too much.

I don't have a compressor so this is how I have done it in the past.

Colin
 
Best to leave them on car - put the piston back in that has come out then start engine and pump brakes - servo will have enough oomph to push out. best to remove pads after first attempt, then pack spaces with wood leaving a gap so pistons come part way out- continue to do this packing evenly each side and they should come out. If you have power steering dont leave the engine running with steering on full lock as you can damage seals on PS pump.
 
Thanks to Scauto and Arthuy. Have to think about this for a while. Both front calipers are removed and brakepipes partly dismantled, so putting them back on doesn´t sound tempting. Seems like I´ve gone about this the wrong way. Serves me right for not being mechanically minded.
 
Hey,

Everyone mkes a hash of jobs even with experience.

If you haven't got one get pipe flaring tool and some unf unions.

You can make up a line and attach it directly to the servo. just get a piece of wood to stop the pistons flying out. as before pump the brake pedal and they should come out. This saves you having to fix the existing pipes.

Colin
 
Thank you, Arthuy. I did what you suggested in your previous reply with bits of wood. I jammed wood into the opening in the caliper and connected the compressor to the caliper. Eight bars of compressed air did the job. All pistons now removed. Big smile.
 
Just as a tip, don't use compressed air to remove the piston from the clutch slave cylinder....

It makes a wonderfull projectile in the garage !
 
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