Howdy!

In the process of troubleshooting an ABS problem, I have had to remove the calipers a couple of times, and this latest time I noticed that the seal around the upper piston of the right front caliper has a tear in it. I'd say that the length of the tear is about 60 degrees around the diameter of the seal. However, there is no leaking fluid of any kind around the seal, so it still seems to be working OK.

I'm concerned that this tear will get larger over time and fail at some point, causing me to lose my brakes on that side.

I have some pictures. What's the best way to upload them? Gallery? Or in the thread?

Should I replace the caliper?

The Haynes manual recommends replacing the calipers in pairs. Is that true?

Since I would have to disconnect the caliper from the brake line, I would need to bleed the brakes. Can I bleed just that wheel, or do I need to do the whole system (RR, LR, RF, LF)?

I think what caused the tear is my own ignorance about how to get the caliper off. There was a lot of resistance getting them off, and I really had to fight them. Then I saw a picture of a C-clamp around the caliper compressing the pistons BEFORE removing the caliper, so I tried it, and it came right off. So I think that's what happened. Oh well, live and learn.

Any help is appreciated!
Thanks!

 

The tear in the boot will let dirt in, which will cause the piston seal to fail. You probably won't lose your brakes right away, but the caliper will start to leak. That will contaminate the pads. If you're mechanically inclined and the bleeders aren't frozen, you can probably get a caliper rebuild kit and just replace the dust seal. If you've got higher mileage, I'd replace both calipers if you go that route. If you pinch off the hose you can get away with bleeding the one corner, but it only takes a few minutes to bleed the rest of the system and get fresh fluid in.

 

Thanks, quiktrp. I ordered RF and LF replacement calipers, about $30 each.

When the brake line is disconnected from the caliper, will a bunch of brake fluid leak out? Anything else I should be prepared for?

Thanks.

 

Hi Skarr, Last time when I replaced the calipers. I used a vise- grip carefully crimp the brake hose to slow down the leak. I also use a golf tee to plug the hose once the caliper is out. You will need to bleed the brakes once they are all fixed up. Make sure the master cylinder does not run dry during the repair.

This is just my 2 cents and good luck to you.

 

Thanks for the help, guys.

I'll post back my results soon...

 

Since I'm replacing the calipers, should I also get new slide pin kits, too? The ones I have now look to be in good condition.

 

If they are in good condition, clean, lube with slide grease, and reuse. They have to move smoothly though. If they hang up or are difficult to move, it will cause your brakes to drag. That will warp your rotors, cause poor fuel economy, and wear your pads prematurely. Also, if you are reusing your old pads, do not get any oil or grease on them. It will soak into the friction material and is impossible to clean them. You'll have to replace.