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Rebuilt Brake Calipers

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The calipers came out looking good and very clean. I ordered new pistons and I have 2 rebuild kits and I'm trying to get the outer wiper seal ring into it's groove. Before I screw another one up who has the secret? I've been very gentle trying to press these things in, but they always twist on one edge and flare out never to be inserted again. Help!
Thanks, Rut
 
did you seperate the calipers? after that, tap tap tap very carefully
 
I left them together and have good access. No matter how I position the retainer ring it always leaves an edge proud of the groove. I may try a piston ring tool and see if I can get it to go. They are cheap, just not available when you need them, but you know that!
 
split the calipers, that's all I'm going to say about that.
 
I thought that was like 'crossing the beams' from Ghostbusters...
I looked up rebuilt calipers (Lockheed) from several sources and they run about $52 to $65 plus a $15 to $20 core. I've got new pistons, kits, bleeders, etc. and have almost that much in my caliper project. I may bite the bullit and skip this step, what an agravation!
Thanks, Rut
 
you don't have to know everything - that is true, but, splitting the calipers is literally the two bolts, do your work, new seal (rubber washer) and bolt and torque back together, no surprises no drama.

PM me your email and I'll send an article - this one really is easy.
 
JPSmit said:
you don't have to know everything - that is true, but, splitting the calipers is literally the two bolts, do your work, new seal (rubber washer) and bolt and torque back together, no surprises no drama.

PM me your email and I'll send an article - this one really is easy.
Click to expand...

thanks for the PM - article sent
 
Seems like I used a plate of steel and pressed them in with a vise---After splitting the calipers. After market are more difficult so I keep my eyes open for NOS on flea-bay.
Also I champher the edge with a file. Especially on the aftermarket.

Kurt.
 
I can't remember the brand, but they came from England and the instructions called for installing them with the pistom in place. Can I put them in without the piston in place? If so, I could use the steel plate method you describe.
Thanks, Rut
 
Been a while since I did it but seems like you can at least get them started without the piston in place. Seems like I had a time keeping the lip of the seal where it was supposed to be when inserting the piston afterwards though. They can be a pain. Lockheed brake grease is useful.

Kurt.
 
In hind sight I've done several and should have made up a sleeve from a suitalble piece of pipe to press them in. Next time for me but I do remember searching for the right old bearing race to help the job.

Kurt.
 
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