2bad

Yo! I've started replacing my front pads today, but I've run into one snag. The piston in the caliper should recess (push it in, says the service manual) so I can swing the caliper back down. It's not as easy as just pushing it in though. Is there some trick here I'm missing? Or will I need to take the caliper off and do a little pressure pushing and then put it back on and swing down?

Thanks.

josh3io

front caliper only needs a squeeze. helps to take the cap off your fluid resivoir. I use a big channel lock wrench to compress mine.

the rears are a different story, they need to be rotated. I use a 3/8 socket to do that.

2bad

Thanks Josh. You're always ever so helpful.

pellisS2k

I use a C-Clamp with a reasonably sized socket to retract my front pistons.

A note about the rears, The 3/8" ratchet trick works great, but make sure it doesnt slip. I ended up stripping the area where you put the ratchet andhad to take a dremel to even out the surface of the piston. Anyone know how much the honda tool is?

2bad

Finished them. I also ended up using a C-clamp. Cost me like $4 at Kragen. During my test-drive it seems to kick in ABS much easier/sooner now, is this normal? They definately feel much better now though, after Laguna on the trip home they were all mushy, which I kind of expected Laguna to really wear on them.

I haven't done the rears and should probably look into doing them next sometime soon, just to do it. Patrick, any info on the Honda tool? If it's worthwhile I'll consider picking one up which we could all share if need be during maintenance periods.

Thanks again for the help.

2bad

Doh! Did some searches on here and think I've found the ABS problem. Anyway, my speed-bleeders are on the way, so I'll be flushing everything out. I gather that will do the trick. Anybody else running the porterfield's, new brake lines and air ducts? These look interesting and I noted them in a prior group buy from Bulletproof. I'm gonna go hit their webpage now and do some more research on them, I'm really tempted to pick them up.

Mike Schuster

I have been able to compress the fronts with my hands. The rears I use a screwdriver blade layed lengthwise in a channel fully across on the piston surface and twist slowly. How were your outer piston seals? Mine were toast front and rear and I just had put new ones on.

2bad

Mine still looked fine. Granted, you really drove your car. I was nowhere near that capacity. Most of the Group C sessions got cut short due to black flags. So, soon as I got warmed up, I was coming back in. I did get 5-6 laps in the last session though which was absolutely awesome. I can't wait to go back, Laguna is an awesome experience.

silversonic

ya... i was in group C and it's so unfortunate that it was cutted short for 2 times....
i went to group B on my last 2 runs and it was a blast!...that silver turbo miata sure was fast...