While I was doing the summer tire swap I decided to pull the pins on rear calipers and inspect/clean/lube. It wasn't till I was doing the second rear caliper that I noticed that the pins are different in that one has a black end about a 1/4 inch. Of course I don't recall which pin the black tipped one game out of; top or bottom.









If anyone knows which pin goes where I'd appreciate it.

 

Those are called "guide pins". My research on Altimas and a few Max applications I found show that the pin with the small black sleeve goes on top. It was this way with my Altima as well. Before installation make sure you wipe off old grease and re-lube with fresh grease. I've used hi-temp synthetic lube for years with very good results. Just apply it sparingly or you might have a tough time getting the pin back in there. Too much grease may hydrolock and try to push the pin back out as you try to insert it. Been there once.

 

Thanks. When I noticed this pin discrepancy I was on the second brake so I just decided to put the pin with the black tip in the top hole. However, I'll go back to the first caliper (driver's side) and check it. Still don't comprehend the purpose of the black tipped pin, but why mess with success.