Brake Tools: Caliper Kits, Bleeders and Presses

Pushing pistons back without damaging the caliper

Replacing pads means retracting the caliper piston. A simple spreader or C-clamp works on front calipers whose pistons push straight in. Many rear calipers contain a parking-brake mechanism, and their piston must be wound back by turning it, which needs a kit with rotary adapters. Check the spreader's opening range, such as 40 to 68 mm, against your pistons, and match the adapters in a caliper set to the calipers you actually service.

Bleeders, brake line and the press for heavier jobs

Bleeder kits push or pull fluid through the system; check that the master-cylinder adapters fit your reservoir cap. Brake line tubing must suit the fittings: steel and copper-nickel lines use specific flares, double or ISO bubble, and need a matching flaring tool. H-frame presses, hydraulic or air-hydraulic, are rated in tons and used for bearings, bushings and ball joints; check the frame rating, ram travel and the working height between the beds.

Questions about Brake Tools: Caliper Kits, Bleeders and Presses

Can I mix DOT 3, DOT 4 and DOT 5 brake fluids?

DOT 3, DOT 4 and DOT 5.1 are glycol-based and can be mixed, though the type specified for the vehicle is best. DOT 5 is silicone-based and must not be mixed with them. Use fluid from a sealed container, since it absorbs moisture from the air.

What tonnage press do I need for bearings and bushings?

For typical car and light-truck bearings, bushings and ball joints, a press in the 12 to 20 ton range handles most jobs. Heavier components or seized parts may need more. Check frame rating, ram stroke and bed spacing, and use proper adapters and eye protection.

Is it safe to reuse old brake line?

Inspect it first. Replace any line that is rusted, kinked, cracked or leaking, and do not reuse a fitting with damaged threads or flare. Brake lines carry the force that stops the car, so use correctly flared lines and follow the manufacturer's procedure.