Front brake question
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Senior User
Joined: Jun 2017
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Front brake question
Simple question. I know on some cars and trucks you need a special tools to push the caliper back in. i just use a large c clamp to do the job. Question do i need any special tools to replace the front brakes pads?
Junior User
Joined: Apr 2006
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C-clamp should work just fine. No special tools required to change out pads on the front. Just remove the two caliper slide bolts which hold the caliper to the bracket, use a rubber mallet to tap the caliper and it should slide off of the old pads. Hang the caliper to avoid putting stress on the brake hose. Pull the old pads out, install your new shims, and pop the new pads into the bracket.
Most important step here is if you have dual pistons in the caliper, you want to push them in evenly together. Use a small block of wood to distribute the pressure from the C-Clamp. Alternatively, I often use the old pad to push the pistons in together.
Most important step here is if you have dual pistons in the caliper, you want to push them in evenly together. Use a small block of wood to distribute the pressure from the C-Clamp. Alternatively, I often use the old pad to push the pistons in together.
Cross-Country
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 67
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C-clamp should work just fine. No special tools required to change out pads on the front. Just remove the two caliper slide bolts which hold the caliper to the bracket, use a rubber mallet to tap the caliper and it should slide off of the old pads. Hang the caliper to avoid putting stress on the brake hose. Pull the old pads out, install your new shims, and pop the new pads into the bracket.
Most important step here is if you have dual pistons in the caliper, you want to push them in evenly together. Use a small block of wood to distribute the pressure from the C-Clamp. Alternatively, I often use the old pad to push the pistons in together.
Most important step here is if you have dual pistons in the caliper, you want to push them in evenly together. Use a small block of wood to distribute the pressure from the C-Clamp. Alternatively, I often use the old pad to push the pistons in together.
i second this. Used old pad and c clamp a couple months ago.
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Senior User
Joined: Oct 2007
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From: Ohio
I suspect the special tools are for rear calipers with built in parking brakes, you have to rotate the piston as you compress it. My old Mercury had those and they were a PITA to compress, it ended up being easier to just replace them.
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