What's the best way to compress brake caliper pistons?

[vtrdaz]

I'm about to renew the front disk's on my 90 - what the best way to compress the pistons back into there bores.
I've seen tools for sale - if that's the better way , whats a good tool?

Cheers

Darren

[davidlandy]

a big screwdiver or a crowbar for me

[mass199]

Crowbar/big screw driver :dance:

[tack43]

I agree, however, your can use pliers or water pump pliers to start. Clamp between pad and edge on caliper. Loosens pad at same time  ;)

[Range Rover Blues]

I use water pump plyers if I can that way I don't have to lever against the disk.

[marky]

Once the caliper is off its mounting I use a g clamp and a piece of wood so i don't damage the piston. Don't forget to take the top off of the fluid resevoir!

[andyb]

I would advise against forcing brake fluid back up towards the resevoir. If it has been topped up at anytime then it could overflow. (Speaking from a general car mechanic point of view) Pushing brake fluid back up a system can also be bad for some ABS pumps.....and if you work on a lot of different cars you can't take the chance...so.....I open the bleed nipples when pushing caliper pistons back.

If you applied pressure on piston before you open the nipple and close the nipple before you release pressure then air cannot get into the caliper.

[T30CDB]

Once the caliper is off its mounting I use a g clamp and a piece of wood so i don't damage the piston. Don't forget to take the top off of the fluid resevoir!

Alternatively buy a set of plastic handy clamps from B & Q they already have protective faces so wont cause ant damage. There easy to tighten and undo as well

[Disco Matt]

I just used one of those brake piston spreader tools last time - much easier than crowbars or screwdrivers and without the risk of damaging the disk. If you take the lid off the brake fluid reservoir and keep an eye on it you shouldn't have problems with it overflowing.