Simple Tip For Shifting Caliper Pistons :)

Discussion in 'Technical Help' started by andyb57, Dec 21, 2019.

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  1. andyb57

    andyb57 Senior Member

    Apr 15, 2017
    280
    113
    Devon
    Apologies if this is already a well known technique - while servicing a brake caliper with a couple of reluctant pistons I stumbled on the brill idea of using a cycle track pump with one of those lilo inflator adapters inserted in the union hole to persuade them to release their grip :) . More controllable than an air line (in my hands anyway) and easy to use.

    You're welcome :cool:
     
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  2. DanielB

    DanielB Noble Member

    Jan 13, 2019
    882
    393
    Abingdon, Oxfordshire
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  3. andyb57

    andyb57 Senior Member

    Apr 15, 2017
    280
    113
    Devon
  4. DanielB

    DanielB Noble Member

    Jan 13, 2019
    882
    393
    Abingdon, Oxfordshire
    It's literally a socket of whatever size and then the square end of a socket drive... just so they wedge in.

    It just allows the stuck pistons too rotate. Once they budge you can slowly pull while twisting.

    I couldn't use an 'air' method as I had to split the caliper to get the pistons out, so they weren't air tight...:blush:
     
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  5. andyb57

    andyb57 Senior Member

    Apr 15, 2017
    280
    113
    Devon
    Point taken!
     
  6. Callumity

    Callumity Elite Member

    Feb 25, 2017
    3,358
    800
    Nr Biggar
    Water pump pliers are a cheap and surprisingly useful addition to a toolbox.......
    Mine have done as much nut strangling as plumbing.

    D5BBD955-8150-4B80-B8F0-14A5A89F7CF7.png
     
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  7. DanielB

    DanielB Noble Member

    Jan 13, 2019
    882
    393
    Abingdon, Oxfordshire
    Sorry, I meant no disparaging towards your method! And, I don't know about anyone else but as I go on this "bike repairs learning curve" it's all about getting skills and techniques in your armoury! The track pump method is certainly one I'll add to my list...so thank you. I didn't realise a track pump would give enough pressure....so it's certainly a good one to now know!

    When I first saw the twisty socket method...I was so blown away (apologies, married, mortgage and kids, so very easily pleased) I simply wanted to share it with as many people as possible!!

    Apparently it works on totally seized pistons...at least to get them turning, once turning you get some lube in there and end up getting them out...plus you are working on the inside of the piston so don't risk damage. Albeit, if their that seized, perhaps it doesn't matter.

    Eitherway....god bless us all as we weave our wonderful ways...safe riding!
     
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  8. tim8061

    tim8061 Member

    Dec 28, 2019
    49
    18
    Gloucester
    Ouch ouch ouch . . . . brutal!
     
  9. Don the Don

    Don the Don Bigger Than The Average Bear

    Nov 5, 2019
    2,947
    800
    MORAY UK
    Found these useful now and again, Plug Pliers

    plug .jpg
     
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