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      02-05-2009, 06:20 PM   #1
WhiteOut
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Brake Pads DIY - helps with specific parts

After removing the caliper and taking out the pads how do you push the pistons in so that the caliper + new pads will fit on the rotor?

Do I need a special tool?

Also, what's the easiest way to deal with the retaining clip? Seems like a major pita to get the clip back on right.
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      02-05-2009, 06:29 PM   #2
Robert
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C clamp is what I have been using on other cars but shouldn't your dealer be replacing pads for you unless its aftermarket.
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      02-05-2009, 08:45 PM   #3
ulrichd
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If it's like my 03 Cooper S, there is a special tool that turns the piston while it pushes it back in. Got mine from Harbor Freight. I can't believe you started a project like this without getting all the info.
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      02-06-2009, 08:51 AM   #4
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My technique has always been to push the pistons back in before I removed the calipers. I insert a screwdriver between the pad and the rotor and apply steady pressure until the pistons are fully pressed back into the caliper.

I'm sure there may be reasons this isn't a preferred method, but it's always worked for me (I've also seen Porsche mechanics at the dealership use the same method)
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      02-06-2009, 10:08 AM   #5
mugennosora
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make sure you open up the brake fluid cap first
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      02-06-2009, 02:52 PM   #6
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Thanks for all the replies. As for starting a project without the info - I tried getting the info on the forums prior. Didn't get any responses. Sometimes the best way of learning is to try it out. I managed to take off the caliper, take off the rotor, get the stock pads out, put them back in, put the caliper back on - all is fine. Think the issue was opening the brake fluid cap and taking out some of the fluid.
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      02-06-2009, 05:00 PM   #7
pkcormier
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You don't need to remove any brake fluid, just remove or loosen the cap. Removing or loosening the cap reduces the fluid pressure when you press on the caliper. Just remember to put the cap back on.
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      02-07-2009, 09:23 PM   #8
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Any tips with dealing with the retaining clip?

Also is there anything that's not as massive as this http://features.evolutionm.net/article.php?id=93 but a little bit more substantial than a basic c-clamp? (Video of the Giro Disc here:
)
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      02-07-2009, 10:23 PM   #9
snkeyez95
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Quote:
Originally Posted by mugennosora View Post
make sure you open up the brake fluid cap first
Oh yeah? Been swapping pads for track days for a couple years and never thought of doing this.
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      09-13-2009, 09:58 PM   #10
polskamafia mjl
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First time I did it on my Volvo, I didn't open the reservoir. As far as compressing the caliper, I've done it with my hands before, lol.
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