Brake job help needed. Why wont my brakes release?

[jmazillo]

Hi and thanks!
I have repllaced my front rotors and pads for the first time and have run into an issue being that following the first pedal depression the brakes won't release.
When I installed the rotor and new pads everything went on smooth with minimal force. The new pads slipped in very easy.
I completed both fronts, hopped into the car and pumped the brake a couple and tried to move the car and in felt like the brakes were 'on'.
I took the wheel off to inspect, the rotor was super tight and wasn't spining. I wacked it with a rubber mallet a couple times and the rotor worked itself free again. I checked the fluid, even removed a mall amount.
Popped the whell back on and same issue; after the firt pedal depression it seems like the callipers wont let go of the rotor.

Any suggestions or guidance will be most appreciated!!
Thanks
James
jmazillo@magbank.com

[DCinVA]

There could be a couple issues that cause this.

Most likely problem is a sticking caliper, and you may need to rebuild them.
The seal inside the caliper is designed to pull the piston back into the caliper slightly when the hydraulic pressure is released. This releases the pressure between the pad and the rotor. Over time corrosion can develop on the piston and in the caliper bore, and this can cause the symptoms you describe. I would start by pulling the caliper boot back (between the piston and the caliper) and looking for any signs of corrosion or dirt. If you see any corrosion, or dirt you will need to disassemble, clean, install new seals and boots. Essentially rebuild the calipers. Rebuilding the calipers is not that hard to do. There have been many "How to" discussions on the 911 board, if you need any "How to" help.

Once you have completed rebuilding the calipers, you will need to bleed the brakes and flush out all the old fluid.