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jimnielsen
23-08-07, 11:42
Hi. when i fitted new pads to the front calipers I had no trouble in pressing the piston in the caliper back in so that the new (thicker) pads could be installed. With the rears however, i can't seem to press the piston back in. I see in the manual that you are supposed to have a special tool to do this - but I don't have it (of course). How do you get the rear pistons to move in?

thanks, JimNielsen

AlfaJack
23-08-07, 11:50
Yes, they need to be wound back in, they are very stiff , undo the bleed screw, it will help.

You could try long nose pliers, or try and make up some thing, but really you need this:

http://www.bizrate.co.uk/carrepairtools/oid563191540.html

cuore_sportivo_155
23-08-07, 11:53
take one of these: http://www.toolspecial.com/images/5241000.jpg
and one of these: http://www.onlinebouwmarkt.nl/winkel/images/Lijmtang%20-%20zware%20uitvoering.jpg

with the latter you put pressure on the cilinder, and with the first you turn the cilinder. Do this alternatingly and the caliper will go in. Or by a special tool from Halfords or similar which will do the same.

BTW, if they don't want to turn clockwise, try counterclockwise. It only works one way, but don't know which way on the Q4...

jimnielsen
23-08-07, 11:56
cool, thanks guys, I'll have a go at it in the morning!

Steve Webb
23-08-07, 11:59
I think its clockwise, the first set i did I just used pliers, twisting and pushing in. But have since got a windback tool. You do need to get the correct fitment to the piston otherwise it can be a bit fiddly.

wrinx
23-08-07, 13:54
They do go clockwise....I used to use the water pump pliers and G-clamp method but a windback tool is much easier!

Makes sure you line up the nipple on the back of the pads, with one of the recesses in the piston face ;)

wrinx

jimnielsen
24-08-07, 05:35
Got it done - used a regular brake piston compressor in tandem with vice grips - worked a teat! Thanks to all!


http://www.nielsen.org/alfa155Q4/rearbrakejob.jpg

Steve Webb
24-08-07, 08:09
Damn!! that rear suspension looks in good condition, hardly corroded at all. Mine was slowly turning into metal cornflakes whilst it was in the UK. Just a good job it lives in a garage now.
I guess the Japanese don't use salt on the roads.

jimnielsen
24-08-07, 12:32
yes, its in remarkable condition. The car has only traveled 72000 km !

cuore_sportivo_155
24-08-07, 20:32
10000 of which on a boat.. :)