[jimbarrettsmith]

Has anyone changed the Piston and Seals on the front brake caliper? I have been told it is impossible to replace the piston and seals without the specialists tools and have been advised to buy a new front caliper (at twice the price). Is this a true fact or is this person trying to pull a fast one.

I had the front near side brake hang on at 65MPH down a hill approaching stationary traffic which I have to say was quite exciting, but is probably something I dont want to repeat in the near future

Thanks, Jim

 

[kbart]

Could just be a collapsed brake line restricting the reverse flow of fluid.

 

[jimbarrettsmith]

I wish it was, but unfortunatley it is definately the Piston. I took the caliper off and it had broken up into lots of little bits so I can only assume that it cracked, swelled up and then just got stuck

 

[bluvikng]

I believe they are telling you the truth. It is very difficult to rebuild a caliper.

By the way, were you the one that was coming to Dallas, TX ?

 

[robjeep]

Very interesting that you posted something that sounds like an experience i had today....Going out for dinner i drive my jeep about 8 miles, get out and the drivers side brakes are smoking!
I got it back home and took it apart and everything seemed to be in good condition, however my master cylinder reservoir was overfilled and the fluid looked dirty...Maybe I need to flush all the fluid and get new calipers for the front?? anyone else experienced this dilemma?? it has about 100K miles on it and very new pads?? any thoughts would be appreciated!
Thanks, Robert

 

[bluvikng]

If your brake fluid is discolored, and dirty looking, you definitely should replace the fluid. It does get corroded and gets build up in the system. After you have put fresh fluid in the system, and you still have sticky brakes, then yes, you should replace your calipers.