by Walter Grace

Created on: April 20, 2009   Last Updated: April 24, 2009

Despite the fact that new or remanufactured calipers are inexpensive and usually available, there are a few good arguments to rebuilding the one you have. The parts to do the rebuild are very inexpensive; usually less than five dollars not counting the brake fluid. There is also the satisfaction of being able to do this yourself. As long as you follow a few safety precautions and know when rebuilding is not an option, this should be relatively easy.

When trying to rebuild a caliper, which includes replacing the dust boot, one literal sticking point will concern the bleeder valve on the caliper. If it's stuck, you're going to want to use a welding torch and heat this red before trying in earnest to remove it. If this part breaks off, your options are going to be trying to drill out and tap the hole, or replacing the caliper. If you've changed the brake fluid every couple of years, this should not be a problem. Moisture will work its way into the braking system, degrading seals and rusting out lines if this is not done, and will lead to seized bleeder valves. This is another story.

Raise the end of the vehicle being worked on and support it with jack-stands, after loosening the wheel nuts or bolts. Do not use the jack that came with the vehicle, or use any jack to support the car. I have had one fall down on me and nearly lost the fingers on my right hand when trying to take off the tire. The wheels will come off next and beneath that, there are your calipers; one on each wheel.

Remove the banjo bolt holding the brake line and insert a small rubber hose in the end of the line. Remove and discard the copper washers as these will leak and new ones are cheaper than a crash. There are usually two bolts that hold the caliper to the steering knuckle, but every one is different. Pay attention to the way it came off and use the other side as a reference when trying to get it back on again. The caliper will be filled with brake fluid, cover this with a rag get it away from the car. The fluid will eat the paint in short order. Clean up any spills with clean water.

Put the caliper on a solid surface, you will likely see one piston inside with a rubber dust boot. If there is more than one piston, better take this to get it exchanged. If you're going ahead, place a block of wood which is thick enough to cushion the piston and thin enough to allow it to come out. Do not use your fingers to catch the caliper, you will lose them. Use an air hose, and a little amount of pressure,

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