I'm changing front brake pads on an 84 GL wagon...

So I've been at it all day setting my brake piston back to fit new pads on (using needle nose pliers-not piston tool )

Pardon my ignorance, but how far back does it need to go? Flush or enough to fit the new pads on? If not Flush will this create a disaster? Do they re-adjust themselves.

Haynes indicates flush, but to be honest, I am fed up with the needle nose pliers technique, and like I've mentioned... been at it all day. Boy does that thing set back slowly!

Btw, I can't run out & buy a piston tool... I'm broke as a joke:(

As long as you can get the pads on that's far enough. But make sure that the piston is turned the right way. They should be horizontal.

You da man Bratman!

Yes, I did take note of that detail, re. the little nipple on the inside pad matching up with the groove on the piston.

 

I can't tell you how relieved I am at hearing your answer...

Glad I could help!! It might be that you will need to screw them in all the way to get the new pads to fit, but it really doesn't matter, as long as you can slide the caliper down over the pads your fine. Good luck!!!

You are absolutely right. I went back out all excited to slip the caliper on, and wouldn't you know... piston isn't deep enough. It seems like it has to be flush after all.

Oh well... I'll keep at it.

Thanks again!

When I do it, I use the needle nose pliers as well. I don't have the tool for it. So I know how slow it can be!! Just keep at it, you'll get it.

It makes me feel a little better to hear that I'm not the only one busting knuckles with the pliers.

http://shop.oreillyauto.com/productdetail.aspx?MfrCode=PBI&MfrPartNumber=648410&CategoryCode=3479

 

Under $10, might be worth checking into.

The tool makes it way easier.

 

Wouldn't the time you spent today be worth the 10 bucks?

Ain't that the truth!!!!!!

 

I am a stubborn Noob!

 

But I must say that I have learned my lesson. With about 2 mm to go, SNAP, needle-nose pliers break (my only ones).

 

Unfortunately I took a massive pay-cut to hold onto my job and money is scarce these days. I get payed once a month, so basically the few bucks I had went into the parts, not thinking or having done this before...

I said to myself, "Ahhh, I don't need that stinking tool!":rolleyes:

 

gotta laugh at myself... cause i'm outta tears...

heres what I did, make the tool, take a socket, old one preferably, grind away all but a thickness of the slot in the brake piston on top and bottom, put socket/tool on ratchet and turn piston in, very easy and effective, no more broken needle nose and way faster:banana:, hope this helps.....G

very interesting, got a pic of said socket/tool contraption?

I attempted to fab one up, but failed miserably.

Thanks!!!