Brake Caliper: Testing and Inspection

WARNING: BRAKE LINING DUST CAN, IF INHALED, DAMAGE YOUR HEALTH. ALWAYS USE A VACUUM BRUSH TO REMOVE DRY BRAKE LINING DUST. NEVER USE AN AIR LINE.

When fitting new brake pads always take necessary precautions and remove the brake dust from around the caliper area. After renewal, pump the brake pedal several times to centralize the new brake pads.

NOTE: If both front and rear calipers have been removed from the vehicle, take care not to mix up left and right hand caliper bodies.

Remove all brake dust from the caliper, carrier and brake rotor. Thoroughly clean the pad abutment areas, avoid damaging the piston and dust cover.

CAUTION: When cleaning brake components only use a proprietary fluid. Never use gasoline. Use of gasoline, paraffin or other mineral based fluids can prove dangerous.

Examine all the components for signs of wear, damage and corrosion. Pay particular attention to the piston and piston bore.

Remove caliper body corrosion with a wire brush or wire wool. No attempt should be made to clean a badly corroded or scored piston bore. The caliper must be renewed

CAUTION: No attempt should be made to clean corroded bolts.

Inspect the caliper guide pins, ensure that they are not corroded or seized and that the caliper moves freely. If they are difficult to remove or corroded in any way, the caliper pins and dust covers must be renewed.

CAUTION: Ensure that working surfaces and hands are clean. Use only brake fluid of the correct specification to lubricate the new seals when fitting.

When re-assembling, always renew piston seals. Lubricate the new piston seal and fit carefully to the inner groove of the piston bore.