retracting a caliper

[builderpaul]

I tried replacing the front pads on a 95 tracker. Used large c clamps but can't get the calipers to go in. I have replaced more pads than I can remember and have never had trouble pushing the caliper piston back in. Is there some pressure release somewhere I am missing. Neither side will retract.

TIA

Paul

[GM-Tech]

Never worked on brakes on one of those, but I'd say cracking open the bleeder should do it if it's hydraulics that's keeping it from being depressed. If that doesn't do it, the piston is probably cocked in the bore.

[pm26]

Sometimes using a C clamp causes uneven pressure on the piston, causing it to cock to one side and stick. There is a special tool for pushing caliper pistons back and it looks like a metal brake pad with a screw in the middle. This tool usually does a good job pushing the caliper pistons in.

 

And don't forget that for rear calipers on most vehicles, you do not push the pistons in, but rather turn them sometimes, a special tool is required (can rent the kit at auto Zone or buy one cheap at harborfreight.com.

[95Sierra2500]

Sometimes using a C clamp causes uneven pressure on the piston, causing it to cock to one side and stick.  There is a special tool for pushing caliper pistons back and it looks like a metal brake pad with a screw in the middle.  This tool usually does a good job pushing the caliper pistons in.

 

 

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Or you can save yourself some money and just use the old inner pad, since you're replacing it anyway