I have the rear caliper off the car, but I can't get the piston to compress so I can get it back on over the new pads. The brake line is removed and the valve is wide open

Am I forgetting something? Any suggestions?

Thanks

 

what are you using to compress it?

 

Just a thick pair of plumber's pliers (I forget the correct name)

*I think it's called a channel lock (sp)

same problem on the other rear... the fronts compressed easy.

(yes, the parking brake is off )

 

are you using something across the piston to insure you are applying even pressure across the surface of it?

 

Not really, the channel lock is big enough to reach across the piston flat. Like I said, the fronts were no prob. , just the rears.

 

You DO NOT compress the rear caliper piston with pliers. The piston must be turned clockwise back into the caliper. A large flat blade screw driver works in a pinch. Hopefully you didn't damage the piston or caliper.

 

oops... thanks

(the piston looks ok)

 

At least you didn't use a giant C-clamp, or better yet, a 5000lb press.

 

A large flat file works well also. Make sure you line up the "+" slots perpendicular to the caliper so it will fit over the stud on the pad.

 

Now that you have solved your emergency, before you do this again you should go to the store and buy a disk brake piston tool. It will make the job easier. Looks like this:

http://store1.yimg.com/I/rodi_1806_70175017

You just put the side with four tangs into the four slots on the piston, then use a ratchet with an extension bar to turn it.