4 pistons caliper brakes/pad installions

[1968 nova ss]

Hey guys my 68 nova ss 396 was optioned with the 4 pistons calipers.just installed new wheel bearings...any easy way to reinstall the brake pads..as each pistons is pulled back the other 3 move inward...the only way I see to reinstall brake pads is to disconnect the rubber brake hose where it mounts at the frame,plug the line so all 4 caliper pistons get be pushed inward... any help out there guys is appreciated.thanks.Chris

[PxTx]

Can you just open the bleeder and push the pistons back?

[chevyman0429]

Why not open the lid on the master cylinder and gently push back both pistons at the same time. Then do the other side the same way.

Use a small screw clamp (s) and pull all the pistons back as far as they will go all at once. They won't move back as long as you don't touch the brake petal.

[earntaz]

Here is how it is done on Vette' 4 piston setups. TAZ

http://www.corvettemagazine.com/tech-articles/1965-1982-corvette-disc-brake-installation/

[1968 nova ss]

good ideas so far..with the 4 pistons .simply isn't enough room to install small clamps and open up calipers and install pads...if I an not mistaken,each pistons has a small spring behind each piston,releasing bleeder valve will help ,but doesn't allow the pistons to go far enough back to install pads..will continue to install tomorrow.chris

[earntaz]

Chris -- check this out ... TAZ

http://www.zip-corvette.com/catalog/prod...tallation-tool/ (http://www.zip-corvette.com/catalog/product/view/id/8856/s/65-82-brake-caliper-pad-installation-tool/)

[1968 nova ss]

it seem Napa makes to tool to help in spreading the caliper pistons ,especially easier for 4 piston calipers brakes ,part no SER279,hoping to purchase it tomorrow and we will see what happens.Chris

[jasonL78]

I did 2 68 Novas with the 4 piston disk brakes I don't recall having an issue Chris. Hope it all works out for ya.

[Unreal]

I'll bet you can borrow the tool from Auto Zone.

[iluv69s]

I always compressed the pistons while the caliper was still attached, but loose... just by prying on the brake pad on each side w large screwdriver.

[1968 nova ss]

well,i ended up finding a piece of brake line with fitting attached,removed the brake bleeder screw and attached the line.pushed in the calipers in by hand while installing the brake pads at the same time and just let the brake fluid from the line attached drain into a old coffee can...it took some effort,but none the less,it worked..Chris

[wagonman]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: iluv69s</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I always compressed the pistons while the caliper was still attached, but loose... just by prying on the brake pad on each side w large screwdriver. </div></div>

I agree, This is the best method...

I will loosen the master cyl cover first.

[earntaz]

I don't know if this has been mentioned yet -- DON'T get any of the brake fluid on a painted surface ... it may remove/mar the paint! TAZ