scrap-iron

I have a 97 SE that needs a rear brake job. I haven't changed pads in a while and never on an import. Does anyone know what is involved and are there any tricks to pushing the piston back in? Any special tools required?

Thanks
SCRAP-IRON

KCTYPHOON

yes you need a special tool to do the rear pads. to change the rears involves the same procedures as doing the fronts, except the way to compress the pistons. instead of just using a c-clamp as you would in the front, the rears actually need to be screwed or twisted back. the tool you need looks like is cube shaped and attaches to rachet. its costs about 10 bucks and should be availabe at any local auto parts store. just tell them what you want to do, the will know what u need.. good luck

BriGuyMax

iTrader: (1)

I used a pair of needle nosed pliers....it was kinda hard...but a lot cheaper than buying that tool.

Daniel B. Martin

Rear calipers are similar to fronts, but with the added complication of the hand brake apparatus. The rear caliper pistons must be turned as they are pressed back into the caliper. This is done with a special tool such as K-D #3163 Disk Brake Piston Tool. http://www.mytoolstore.com/kd/kdbrak07.html#3163 This tool may be purchased for about $10 at auto parts stores such as AutoZone. Imported versions of this tool are even less expensive. You may be able to substitute a pair of long-nose pliers.

Pay attention to the position of the piston on the caliper piston when installing the new pads. There are 4 recesses in the surface of the piston. Align any one of those recesses with the raised nub on the brake pad.

For further information please refer to the Chilton manual (page 9-9) or the Haynes manual (page 9-9). Yes, the same page in each book. Coincidence.

Haynes has excellent coverage of brake pad replacements, even better than the factory service manual. Please buy a copy of this book. It will be money well-spent.

Ramius83

Yes, as Daniel B. said, make sure you align one of the grooves in the rear caliper with that of the nub on the brake pad. Failure to do so may result in brake failure. But, if you do not want to purchase the tool to compress the caliper piston, take a LARGE flat-head screw driver and insert it into one of the grooves and turn it clock-wise to compress the piston. It is not easy, but it will do the job. Hope this helps.