hi

Im changing the REAR brake pads on my Maxima SE for the first time.
I have everything removed. Now, when you press the caliper in to
put the pads in, are you supposed to push it back or rotate it back?
I cant push the damn thing back. Its stuck or something.
I even tried twisting it in but the rubber thats under it
starts to twist with it. Is that normal? should I keep twisting it in?

if it really is stuck, how can I dislodge it without breaking it?

any help is greatly appreciated!

thanks

Moazzam

 

dont push it in with a clamp, you need to rotate it clockwise to turn it inward
the rubber shouldnt move with it, be careful not to rip that boot. Try twisting that part the opposite way.

To twist the piston, you will need needle nose pliers across the piston. It has indentions to help out.
It's a pain but that's how you have to do it

 

Follow directions as given by Craig... you can substitue the needle nose pliers (which don't grab very well and cheap ones have a habit of bending) for a brake tool.... they sell the part you need at most parts stores, sears and off the back of the snap on, matco, mac trucks... they are usually $8-20 and are made to be used w/ a 3/8" drive ratchet/extension..... last time I did mine I had a problem getting one to compress because the caliper needed a rebuild.... if you need a shot of the tool I can snap one w/ the digi cam.. mine is a Lisle model.. (this tool is a square looking deal w/ "*****" on the corners.. there are different sizes for different types of calipers.. used alot on Fords too).. be careful not to rip the boot!

 

thanks guys! Im done, it all worked.

Except the boot twisted with it and stayed that way. I tried to
twist it the other way but it wouldnt move. Dont know what happened.
Do you guys think I need to redo that part?

brakes work fine. A little mushy but I guess new pads new rotors
will do that right?

anyway, thanks a bunch for all the help!

Moazzam

 

They shouldn't be mushy. Make sure you bleed them!