caliper rebuild

[DougG]

Anyone ever rebuild a caliper? I think I need to rebuild the calipers on my 88 RRC. The pistons are binding. How hard is it, and what do I need to do? New calipers are very expensive, so I was hoping there was a better(cheaper) solution. Thanks.
Doug

[RoverChic]

Originally Posted by DougG

Anyone ever rebuild a caliper? I think I need to rebuild the calipers on my 88 RRC. The pistons are binding. How hard is it, and what do I need to do? New calipers are very expensive, so I was hoping there was a better(cheaper) solution. Thanks.
Doug

Doug- This is just MHO. I would not rebuild, you can BUT it can be a pain. They sell the re-build kit at Rovers North, Northeastbritsh Parts, and also I believe British Pacific..However this is what I would do:

AutoZone has Calipers for the D1 (1994-1999), I assume they also have them for the RR. On my D1, they ran about $45. A-1 cardone, with a LIFETIME warranty. You swap out the leaking, old, sticky caliper bring it in as a core. They will then credit you back the difference plus you get the warranty. Good luck!


Edit no dice at AutoZone but Napa has them....http://www.napaonline.com/masterpage...=3&SubCatId=13

[p76rangie]

You will probably not have to rebuild them, only replace seals and any damaged pistons. They are relatively easy to rebuild. I find it easier to remove the caliper from the vehicle. Use a clamp on the brake lines to stop the fluid leaking while they are off.
I use compressed air to pop the pistons out. You put the air down the holes where the brake fluid goes into the caliper from the brake system. The first piston from the primary and secondary systems comes out easily with air. To get the second piston out you have to stick your finger in where the piston came out and block the small hole at the back. This will direct the air you the second piston and pop it out. But watch your fingers as they can pop out quickly if too much air is applied. Clean out the cylinders where the pistons came from and remove two rubber and one metal ring from each cylinder. Fit new seals. Check pistons for any scoring or wear and replace with new ones as required. Refit everything a bleed brakes.

[KevinNY]

Atlantic British carries rebuilt calipers for your truck for a reasonable price. I know, I needed all 4 when I rebuilt my Hybrids brake system.

[DougG]

Thanks for all the replies. I'll check out NAPA, and I'll also look into replacing the pistons and seals. I'll post a follow up.
Doug

[Kevin88RRC]

Hey Doug..... What did you wind up doing???

[MPi-KMS-72]

He bought front ones from RN IIRC.

[RageRover]

I just learned how to rebuild calipers myself, and I find, that if you don't have the money to buy a whole new one, even though that new one has lifetime warranty, that it can save some money.

I saved my roommate quite a bit of money; instead of getting front new calipers, we got the $4.99 caliper seal kit, and I replaced the seals and the car was back in business in no time.

Plus, I think it is more interesting to rebuild the calipers, IMO. Saves me money, and just builds experience for me.

[DougG]

Originally Posted by Kevin88RRC

Hey Doug..... What did you wind up doing???

I bought two new front ones from RN, and two new rears from The Parts Bin. The calipers where too far gone.