5 replies to this topic

[lightsandsirens]

I am replacing the front brake pads with KVR carbon fibre/metalic ones. I figured since I'm at it, I might as well paint them too.
The left side went without any problems, but when I tried to compress the piston on the right caliper it wouldn't go in... infact the piston wouldn't even move.

I had no choice but to put the old pads back and put everything back together.
Funny thing is the car brakes just fine... I figured if the one piston is seized then the car would pull to one side during braking?!

Is there a trick? Or am I missing something?

If I can't get it working, then I'll have to take the car to a mechanic and pay $$$labour rates

Edited by lightsandsirens, 28 May 2005 - 01:50 AM.

[Swedish Mike]

I am replacing the front brake pads with KVR carbon fibre/metalic ones. I figured since I'm at it, I might as well paint them too.
The left side went without any problems, but when I tried to compress the piston on the right caliper it wouldn't go in... infact the piston wouldn't even move.

I had no choice but to put the old pads back and put everything back together.
Funny thing is the car brakes just fine... I figured if the one piston is seized then the car would pull to one side during braking?!

Is there a trick? Or am I missing something?

If I can't get it working, then I'll have to take the car to a mechanic and pay $$$labour rates

Finish the left side and put it together, use thin wood pieces or old pads as fake-pads on the right side.
Jump into the car and press the brake, just to get the piston to move.
The piston can get stuck in one place if the pads never wears down and gives it room to move.

When you get the piston in motion you can use brake fluid and pour under the dustcap.
This will help you with rust and to get the piston run smooth.
Now press the piston back and forward until it feels right.

Do you understand my stupid english?

/Mike

Edited by Swedish Mike, 28 May 2005 - 02:29 AM.

[lightsandsirens]

Thanks I will give that a shot !
Don't worry about your english... it's 1000 times better than my Swedish

[shurgen]

If you have a big vice grip it should compress the piston. Also, before you use vice grip, use sand paper to smooth the surface of the piston from rust. I'm pretty sure it's rust that doesn't allow the piston to go inside the caliper. I had this issue when replaced brake pads last summer

[Johnnie855T]

Vise grip, oww. I normally use a C clamp 4"-6" (cheap at hardware store) to compress the pistons in my calipers. If you have one that is seized, I would remove the rotor and compress the unseized piston caliper while it is still mounted, then use your brakes to free the seized piston. carefull not to pop the piston out of the caliper. this method freed my brakes.

[lightsandsirens]

Got it today with a friend of mine. What a pain!
We did it as you guys have suggested it and it worked. Thanks!