sticky caliper

[dom_e]

Hi all

I've got a sticky front left caliper, which from a bit of reading up could be caused by a few things. I'd like to try a simple potential fix first by checking the guide pins, but wanted to see if anybody here has experience of the brakes before I pile in.

Is it possible to clean up the caliper, lube the guide pins and check them for other possible problems without removing them from the vehicle or draining them of fluid? Is somebody also able to point me to which bits are the guide pins?

I'm hoping I can save a bit on garage bills!

Cheers all.

[the laird]

Firstly jack up make safe then remove wheel.put a screwdriver/lever between the piston and try and push in ,if you do remove the brake reservoir cap cause brake fluid may squirt upwards.if piston does go back quite easily,unbolt the caliper from the carrier,then try and push the slides in,if stiff twist and pull out ,clean up with emery cloth then copper grease and replace this can be done without splitting the hydraulic system.
If the piston is seized I dont think it should be tampered with unles you are a competent repairer as safety first applies

[Northern Bongolow]

33-302 is the mounting bolts x 2
http://lushprojects.com/bongopartsmk2/c ... mgno=.html

33-694 x2 are the guide pins (note when removing one longer than the other,and different at the end, and where which goes.)
http://lushprojects.com/bongopartsmk2/c ... no=.html#9.

get proper fitting spanners /sockets because they will be tight.

strip and clean everything while still attached to the brake line if you wish unless your removing the pistons, then you may need to clamp the brake pipe.

its an easy and satisfying job to do yourself if you feel able but if in any doubt seek help as one faulty reassembled part could be a bit iffy.
taking photos of the position of everything the first time is maybe a good idea.

[Simon Jones]

Another useful tip: only strip brakes one side at a time so the other side remains intact as a reference but bear in mind it is a mirror image.

It's more effort, but worth taking the calipers off, giving them a good clean up and then a squirt of silver paint. You may also find the spring clips are weak or broken so may need replacing.

[dom_e]

Fantastic. Very helpful replies. I'll give it a go later.