Rear brake caliper problem

SlowToady · 04-27-2005, 08:23 AM

I started doing the brakes the other day (finally got my rotors) and I noticed that the outside brake pad (rear caliper) has about half the material on it that the inside pad does. I guess that means that the caliper isnt sliding correctly, but I don't know how to correct or diagnose it. Could someone give me some ideas?

Also, I am having a problem with the two pins that hold the brake pads. The top pin came out nice and easy, but the bottom pin is rusted in. I applied a decent amount of Liquid Wrench but to no avail. I've tried tapping it in different directions to brake the rust free, but I still can't get it out and now I've started to deform it. I was thinking about cutting it off flush with the caliper and trying to tap it out again, but I don't want to cause more harm than good. I'd be grateful for some help with this, as well.

Thanks,

Slow

SoCal Driver · SoCal Driver's Garage

The rusted pin is a give away that the whole assembly is not centering correctly. I had one acutally twist and wear the pads in a wedge shape.

Have to take it all apart as best you can and replace corroded pins and such.

SlowToady · 04-27-2005, 11:27 AM

Darn it, confirmed what I didn't want to do...I kinda figured on that.

I might just buy a new caliper and have it FedExed..take less time. How hard is rebuilding the caliper?

Thanks SoCal

edit:

I guess that would explain the weird wear patten on the contact area of the pad, and the noise I was hearing...

SoCal Driver · SoCal Driver's Garage

Shouldn't neet to do a whole new assembly. But if you do get one for the other side. Should be replaced in pairs/axle.

SlowToady · 04-28-2005, 08:45 AM

Hey SoCal, what if my piston is too rusted/pitted? Do I need a new caliper or is the piston replaceable? If I take a pic, could you (or someone else) tell me if it's too rusty?

Thanks

04-28-2005, 09:45 AM

I can't help, but I always like seeing pics.

XJOSHX · 04-28-2005, 01:53 PM

I got a complete set of calipers off of an 84 944 that had low miles and always garaged.

SoCal Driver · SoCal Driver's Garage

Yes you can rebuild them. They can not be pitted.

If you purchase used have the seller pull the pistions and check for pits.

GHEN · GHEN's Garage

I will post pice soon but suffice to say that www.goldlinebrakes.com rebuilt my 944 calipers for 69.95 each and they are awesome.

I had the same problem with the pins and finally had to drill them out.

Good luck!

GHEN

jphillips-998 · jphillips-998's Garage

You shouldn't need to replace your calipers as long as they are not leaking at the seams. The rebuild kits are readily available with or without pistons.

The rebuild is actually pretty easy, the hardest part is removing the existing pistons. I would suggest checking the pistons for pitting or other damage then order just the seals or the complete kit w/new pistons.