Re-install Procedure Front Brake Pads

[John L.]

What procedure do you recommend to reinstall front brake pads on my manual brake '66? As per the service manual, I drained 2/3 of fluid from the master cylinder but can't the pistons to retract enough for pad installation, thanks

[Joe L.]

Re: Re-install Procedure Front Brake Pads

What procedure do you recommend to reinstall front brake pads on my manual brake '66? As per the service manual, I drained 2/3 of fluid from the master cylinder but can't the pistons to retract enough for pad installation, thanks

John------

Try loosening the caliper bleeder valve before trying to push the pistons back in. Two caveats here, though:

1) Attach a bleeder hose to the valve before opening it and place the open end in a container;

2) When you push the pistons back in, make sure the movement of the piston is ENTIRELY INWARD while the valve is open. If you can't maintain constant inward pressure, then close the valve before even the slightest outward movement occurs.

[John L.]

Re: Re-install Procedure Front Brake Pads

Thanks Joe, very helpful as I don't want to get air into the system and then have to bleed the brakes given I have 15year old Dot 5 fluid in the system and a limited remaining amount. Question, if one was just to open the bleeder valve and not touch any other brake component, would air get into the system?

[Stephen L.]

Re: Re-install Procedure Front Brake Pads

I would re-install the old pads on both wheels. Then pry one pad to the full retracted position. Now install a new pad. Go the remaining old pad and pry it to the fully retracted position. Install a new pad and then apply the brakes to close the pads against the rotor.
Now do the same procedure on the other wheel.

[Steven B.]

Re: Re-install Procedure Front Brake Pads

I usually use one of the old pads against the piston(s) and use a c-clamp to move the piston(s) back into the calipers. You don't need to open the bleeders. You need to make sure you have enough room in the master cylinder for the fluid that will move back through the brake lines.

[Joe L.]

Re: Re-install Procedure Front Brake Pads

Thanks Question, if one was just to open the bleeder valve and not touch any other brake component, would air get into the system?

John------


No.