Rebuilt Calipers

[Rouxzy]

I finally got around to doing a complete brake job, replace rotors, pads and rebuild the calipers. As it turns out I only had one caliper that was really doing all the work. All pads had been put on at the same time. The right rear was nearly gone and the other three were almost like new. Turns out the pistons in the three calipers were pretty well stuck and didn't want to move. After cleaning and replacing seals my car now has put you through the windshield stopping power. Knowing what I know now I should have done this a long time ago. My advice to those of you with older cars is to get this inexpensive fix done.
Tom

[sc_rufctr]

This is on my to do list...

Did you take any pictures of the frozen callipers?

[Monza_dh]

I just fininshed my rears this morning!!

I had a tough time with the dust covers and ended up needing another set after ripping them trying getting them on. Just bleed the systtem and will test once my alternator get in this week.

[Gunter]

Pistons freeze (Rust) because they more or less stay in the same position and move very little plus the moisture present in the brake fluid settles in the lowest point which is the slave-cylinder.
Pistons need to be "exercised" meaning: Whenever the wheels come off, push the pistons in with the help of large channel-lock pliers grabbing the steel-portion of the pads and the caliper-body; squeeze.
Then push them back out with the help of the pedal.
Repeat 2-3 times.

Change the brake fluid every 2 years.

[richard003@wind]

I have done all 8 of them. You will be glad that you did in most cases. I found a stuck piston on one, another had a smashed flat brake line in the rear where you can't see it unless you stand on your head. I used fine scothbright pad with solvent on the pistons untill all was bright again, and 600 & 1200 on the inside. Be very carefull, but I used a dentil pick to get the buildup in the groove for the rubber seal. When you put it back together, I used silicone lube, just a tiny bit, so the piston does't roll the rubber seal. I now have great brakes, and know they are done right.

[Rouxzy]

Peter,
I didn't take pics, but I used the tech article from here. The only advice I can give is take your time and like some have said use silicone lube to put pistons back in.
Tom