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Thread: rotating M caliper pistons

  1. #1
    Senior Member
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    rotating M caliper pistons

    Had my M calipers rebuilt, but it does not look like they orientated the pistons in 20 degree fashion. Can is safely remove each piston clip/rubber seal and rotate them to the correct spot.? I don't have the old ATE tool, but can visually get them in the ballpark. Any help appreciated

  2. #2
    Shift Knob Maker
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    If they where just rebuilt, they should rotate easily, slip jaw pliers with a piece of rubber between jaws and piston work well.
    Mark..

  3. #3
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    Quote Originally Posted by 76911S View Post
    If they where just rebuilt, they should rotate easily, slip jaw pliers with a piece of rubber between jaws and piston work well.
    Mark..
    I'd like to see a video of that!
    Check out Eric Shea's excellent article on caliper rebuilding in the current Esses magazine.
    Not getting the magazine? Join the Registry today!

    Regards.

    Jim

  4. #4
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    Thx Jim, just joined the Esses group, and will try to dig up the article from Eric Shea. Thx again

  5. #5
    Senior Member Bavaria911's Avatar
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    After rebuilding my 4 calipers, and showing pics on the forum, it was pointed out that one piston was not in the 20 degree setting. I relooked all 8 pistons and 3 were off.
    I was able to rotate them in the caliper with a light tap to turn each piston. No issues at all.

    Scott

  6. #6
    Senior Member Neunelfer's Avatar
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    I would encourage you "never" to take pliers to your pistons and "never" tap them into place.

    If they have recently been rebuilt, they will pop out easily. Pop them out - Position them properly - Press them back in. This saves from marring and galling your piston tops.

    You don't need the 20 degree angle tool. It's too simple. Find the centerline of the pad cavity (in green below) and position your lower notch on the centerline. Angle the opening into the face of the oncoming rotor. Illustration below would be showing a passengers side caliper.
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  7. #7
    Shift Knob Maker
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    Well, Eric is the recognized expert, I will never use my rubber covered pliers again.

  8. #8
    Quote Originally Posted by Neunelfer View Post
    I would encourage you "never" to take pliers to your pistons and "never" tap them into place.
    Original ATE pliers for rotating brake pistons.

    Jon B.
    Vista, CA

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  9. #9
    Senior Member Bavaria911's Avatar
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    Awesome !!!

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