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Re: splitting front calipers

To: suhs2@hotmail.com, spridgets@autox.team.net
Subject: Re: splitting front calipers
From: Ajhsys@aol.com
Date: Tue, 21 Sep 1999 11:01:13 EDT
Reply-to: Ajhsys@aol.com
Sender: owner-spridgets@autox.team.net
In a message dated 9/20/99 7:52:08 PM Eastern Daylight Time, 
suhs2@hotmail.com writes:

<< Questions:
 Can I remove and replace the caliper half without taking the caliper off the 
 car? >>

I wouldn't.  Cleanliness is the most important thing in brake work.  It is 
easy to remove the caliper (just have a plug ready for the flex hose) and you 
can work much easier on a bench.  When you split the halves of the caliper, 
the whole thing will come apart.  You probably should replace the seals at 
this point.  Brake fluid will get all over the place.

<< Can I successfully repair this leak at all?
 What is involved?
 What grade bolts do I use to reassemble?
 Locking devices?  >>

While the gasket is available from Moss, it is noted in the catalog and all 
the manuals that splitting the caliper is not recommended.  You should be 
able to do the job.  I have never split a caliper, but I have rebuilt many, 
and that part is not too hard.  I would use Locktite on the bolts, and if you 
want to replace the bolts, probably grade 5 would be best.  And when you 
replace the o-ring, make sure you use a Nitrile o-ring, which is resistant to 
brake fluid.

Once again, clean everything scrupulously.  You don't want any contamination 
of grease, oil or water in a brake caliper.

The easier option is to just get another rebuilt caliper for $50 to $75.

Good luck.

Allen Hefner
'77 Midget
'92 Mitsubishi Expo LRV Sport

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