Brake Pads Installation – How to?
filed in 1999 Honda Civic
Question: When replacing worn pads (front wheels), I have an awful time opening up the space to remove the old pads and spreading enough for the new ones. I even have to hammer the yoke. Is there some technique to ease up this process? (If it matters, it’s ‘78 Honda Civic 1200) THANKS FOR ANY HINTS,
Answer: You can use a giant C-clamp and press the piston back in. Better yet, open the bleeder valve and bleed brakes to get rid of contaminants in the brake fluid (water and otherwise). SInce you mentioned hammering the yoke, are your pistons binding in its bore? I always open the caliper bleeder screw, then pry the piston back into the caliper to gain enough slack. I then retighten the bleeder screw to prevent any air from being drawn into the lines. My Chilton’s manual for my ‘84 Ford F-250 truck says to not move the pistons of a floating caliper. My truck is equipped with sliding calipers. I didn’t find any reason for not moving the piston of a floating caliper. After all, it is a Ford…
I cock the caliper slightly to one side; forces the pistons back in. A smooth prybar inserted between the caliper and disc will force the pistons in. When one pad comes out, you have enough room to push the pistons back far enough that new pads can be inserted with plenty of room.
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