Brake Caliper: Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Sunfire and 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Inspect the fluid level in the brake master cylinder reservoir. If the brake fluid level is midway between the maximum-full point and the minimum allowable level, then not brake fluid needs to be removed from the reservoir before proceeding. If the brake fluid level is higher than midway between the maximum-full point and the minimum allowable level, then remove brake fluid to the midway point before proceeding.
- Raise and support the vehicle. Remove the tire and wheel assembly.
- Reinstall 2 wheel nuts in order to retain the rotor to hub and bearing assembly. Install a large C-clamp over the body of the brake caliper with the C-clamp ends against the rear of the caliper body and against the outer brake pad. Slowly tighten the C-clamp until the piston is pushed into the caliper bore enough in order to slide the caliper assembly off the rotor.
- Remove the C-clamp from the caliper. Clean all dirt and foreign material from the brake hose end.
- Remove the brake hose-to-caliper bolt from the brake caliper. Remove the brake hose from the brake caliper. Remove and discard the 2 copper brake hose gaskets. These gaskets may be stuck to the brake caliper and/or the brake hose end.
- Cap or plug the opening in the brake caliper and the brake hose to prevent fluid loss and contamination. Fully loosen the caliper bolts from the steering knuckle. Remove the brake caliper from the steering knuckle.
- Remove the brake pads from the caliper. Remove the disc brake caliper bolts from the caliper assembly. See Fig 1 .
- Inspect the caliper bolts for rust, corrosion and/or damage. If the bolts are rusty, corroded, and/or damaged, replace the bolts and replace the bushings. See DISC BRAKE HARDWARE .