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What should be done before retracting the caliper piston?
Before you reset the caliper piston, it’s a good idea to remove the cap that covers the brake fluid reservoir. If you don’t, you’ll be fighting against a significant amount of brake fluid pressure. Now that the reservoir cap is removed, this is the part where you’ll need that C-clamp.
What should caliper piston seals be lubricated with?
Silicon based lubricant is fine on brake fluid compatible seals and is beneficial for their operation. Generally there is no need to put any compound between the disc pad (puck) and the caliper piston unless there are problems with brake squeal.
How far should caliper pistons retract?
Have your assistant take their foot off the brake pedal. 4.) Measure the retraction of the piston. If the movement is anywhere between 4 to 6 thousandths, the square cut seal is working properly.
Should brake caliper pistons be lubricated?
You should not have to lubricate the brake pistons. If you are replacing pads you should clean & lube the pistons.
Is silicone grease OK for brake seals?
You do NOT want silicone on that seal. It will contaminate the brake fluid. Not good. The proper fluid is brake parts assembly lube (not commonly found anymore, you have to look for it).
Is it worth rebuilding a brake caliper?
If the piston is scored or pitted beyond repair, your customers will have to replace the caliper. While caliper rebuild kits are an affordable solution that may prolong the life of the braking system, these kits can only repair limited issues that may affect a caliper over its lifetime.
Can you replace caliper seals?
The seals can easily be removed with the help of a small flat-blade screwdriver – just be careful not to score any of the parts, so you don’t cause any leaks in the future. Clean up the inside of the caliper and all the seal mating surfaces, ready for the next step.
What causes a brake caliper piston to retract?
Fluid pressure inside the caliper pushes one or more pistons outward to apply the brake. When the brake pedal is released, hydraulic pressure drops and the calipers loosen their grip. When the brakes are released, the piston seals retract the pistons, allowing the rotor runout to kick the pads away from the rotors.