Rear Caliper Question...

[jstutz101]

While replace another ripped CV boot I decided to rotate my tires. While I had the rear tires off I decided to check the rear brake pads. I noticed the outer pads are very worn while the inners were in decent shape. I just replace them less then 2 years ago. I was wondering if this was a sign of the rear calipers being frozen?

I've got 130,000 miles and they are probably the original calipers. Im on my second set of front calipers.

Thanks!!

Jeff

 

[MidwestT4R]

I just replaced my rear calipers because of the same thing. I also started getting a pulsing through the brake pedal as the frozen rear caliper warped the rotor.

This after changing the pads less than two years ago. I'm at 118K so I would not be surprised if one of them was frozen.

It's certainly easy enough to check. The rear caliper is held on by two bolts so you can easily remove it without removing the pads. Pull one or both and try to compress them. If they go in easily I would check the caliper bolts to see if they have enough lube on them and that they go in and out of the caliper nice and easy.

 

[jstutz101]

I went ahead and replaced the pads. I was happy to be able to compress the pistons for a change. The pads tested my patience going back in but now all is well. Happy not to be buying rear calipers just yet.

 

[TechWrench]

I went ahead and replaced the pads. I was happy to be able to compress the pistons for a change. The pads tested my patience going back in but now all is well. Happy not to be buying rear calipers just yet.

When you do the rear brakes, you need to be sure of a few things. First, make sure you clean all built up rust under the metal slider clips on the mounting plate that the pads fit into. Built up rust under these clips can tighten up the clearances enough to prevent the pads from moving properly. (This could be the reason you had so much difficulty installing the new pads.) This will cause the pads to wear prematurely because they won't 'relax' away from the disc when the brakes are released. Second, make sure the two pins/bolts that hold the caliper to the mount are cleaned of all debris/corrosion (replace them if necessary) and lubricated with a silicone brake lubricant where the fit into the rubber bushings (these bushings are easily replaced if damaged). If these are sticking, then the caliper will not 'float' as designed, and it will cause the outer pads to wear faster.