Pitted Pistons (S-Brake Calipers)

island911 · 02-26-2002, 09:30 PM

Does anyone have spec's (or experience) on what the pistons can tolerate when it comes to pitting?

Does a little pitting tear up the seal causing leaks? Or is it mostly problematic when the pit is wider than the seal?

This (with the worst sides showing) is what I'm being told is good.

Any experience on this would be great.

Evans, Marv · 02-26-2002, 09:45 PM

The pistons don't move much during braking, so unless the pits are wider than the seal, I doubt there would be major problems. I have some S calipers & the pistons have some pretty minor pitting. I often wondered if I could just take them in & have them rechromed.

bjola · 12:02 AM

Would be sceptical to that pitting on the left piston.
You can buy replacement pistons that would prevent future problems.

island911 · 02-27-2002, 02:48 PM

Thanks for the replies!
Marv I too thought, have them rechromed. Although they appear to have a #8 or 16 ground finish on the chrome. . . .$$$

The only replacement pistons I know of are the SS. They seem to be popular, but the originals must have been hard coated for a reason.
Without the hard coating, I would think there would be a good chance of sticking pistons.
Any thoughts?

pwd72s · 02-27-2002, 04:57 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by island911
Thanks for the replies!
Marv I too thought, have them rechromed. Although they appear to have a #8 or 16 ground finish on the chrome. . . .$$$

The only replacement pistons I know of are the SS. They seem to be popular, but the originals must have been hard coated for a reason.
Without the hard coating, I would think there would be a good chance of sticking pistons.
Any thoughts?

I too have wondered about the stainless replacements...have yet to hear a definitive answer, though I do know people have used the stainless replacements with success. Of course, one could always just step up and buy new calipers, right? 2nd mortgage rates are low these days...