rebuild my own calipers?
 

Another question...

My brakes are working fine for the time being, but I have purchased some new SS brake lines, because I just don't like the thought of driving with old rubber hoses, and I've seen what happens to hoses when they're let go too long (I restore 60's cars in what little free time I do have)

I just had my front calipers off their mounts last weekend while troubleshooting a completely unrelated problem, and I noticed that the LF caliper was starting to seep just a hair. I was thinking that it would be a nice touch when I put the new hoses on maybe pull the calipers, electrolytically derust them and paint them (I like nice clean painted stuff) - are there any special instructions for a caliper rebuild or are they pretty standard? The e-brake is completely separate from the rear calipers, correct?

thanks,

nate

I don't know about a rebuild, but I do know that the e-brake is a completely separate system from the rear brakes. (Kinda uses a vestigual drum.)

rebuilding calipers is a pain in the ass. I did it.

please define "pain in the ass." Not meant as a smartass response but I hone and rebuild wheel cylinders for drum brakes all the time, so what's more difficult about the Porsche calipers? I priced out some new ones on Pelican's web site and for the difference between some seal kits and a new set of calipers I'm willing to put up with a lot of PITA factor, just so long as I know I can do the job.

If I really can't do it, it will probably be seeping when I sell the car, it's not in any way dangerous yet, just giving that little warning that it's going to need some attention within the next year or so. Actually my brakes feel 100% better since I tightened up my front wheel bearings, they're awesome now, but I just like to make things right on principle.

nate

I don't think the 944 calipers are any more difficult than other calipers to rebuild.

I see by your signature you have an 88. Does the 88 use single piston, or 4-piston calipers? I've rebuilt both. I'm pretty sure you have the single piston calipers.

The single-piston calipers are easier to rebuild, simply because there's less parts. the "cup" that contains the piston should be removed from the circular "frame" (you'll understand my terminology when you have them on a bench) Just be sure you know which pieces are left and right, and that you get the large, u-shaped spring back onto the correct caliper, and in the correct position. (the clips are not symmetrical) If you get the spring-clip in backwards of you get the calipers mixed up between the sides of the car, you'll get a clunk out of the calipers every time you step on the brakes.

If you have the 4-piston calipers, say so, and i've got tips for rebuilding those as well (rebuild kits for the 4-piston calipers are very expensive!)


BTW, the SS braided lines and freshly rebuilt caliper make a HUGE difference

I am sure you can do it since you have done other brake systems. The 944 single piston calipers are a breeze. Easier than the 911 dual piston calipers as well.

I agree that the biggest pain is getting the "assembly" / "horseshoe" thing back together... Read: go easy on the paint as it needs to slide freely to adjust properly.

Good Luck!

Thanks for the replies, yes they are single piston, I'm putting "seal kits'" on the list for my next parts order, assuming I keep the car that long.

I keep saying I'm going to sell the car but a) I haven't got the free time to make it up to PA to pick up the car my mom wants to get out of her driveway b) I love driving it and c) I keep fixing crap on it anyway (just painted another pair of wheels for it last weekend)

This weekend: new halfshaft install (Pelican has them, just doesn't list them on the web site) and other minor maintenance stuff.

nate

They aren't very difficult to rebuild. Pelican has the kits - or the Porsche dealer has them. They take about 30 minutes a caliper to rebuild.

AFJuvat

Consider this - I actually had fun rebuilding my calipers! Go figure. I drive the car for fun and every now and then get to have fun fixing it! Am I alone in this or just quite deranged?

Slam
1983 944 - my "PITA"
1982 931 - her project

No, I'm with you Slam.

bringing this post back to life, because I'm rebuilding them now. I noticed two white plastic clips with my seal kits. Does anyone know what these are for?

Nevermind, after cleaning all the grime I found them.

Those clips can slide around a bit when you're reinstalling the caliper halves. I'd agree with the "not too much paint" comment - could make tolerances tight. I chased my clips around for a bit before I got everything to bite.