Brake calipers?

Dtowncats · 03-04-2006, 12:23 PM

How do I get these darn things off? I am used to Ford calipers and I don't have a service manual yet.

I jacked it up, took the wheel off, and then undid the 2 13 mm bolts in the back. After I did that the rotor and the caliper was loose but I just couldn't pull the caliper off of the rotor. Any help?

**10achik** · 03-04-2006, 12:26 PM

I think there is three bolts...I can't remember on a ZJ, but look very carefully to see if you can find a third bolt maybe underneath. If there isn't one, then use a rubber mallet and smack a couple of times and it will break it loose.

**Varkyl** · 03-04-2006, 12:31 PM

there are just two bolts. What you may have to do is compress the piston a little to get enough play to remove the caliper and pads.

greasefingers · 03-04-2006, 12:37 PM

exactly

///BHRpowered · 03-04-2006, 01:01 PM

Only 2 bolts. Normally when I remove the botton bolt I will loosen the top 1 that knock it loose with a hammer, once free'd remove the top bolt and it comes off quite nicely

Dtowncats · 03-04-2006, 01:04 PM

Ok thanks guys. Sorry for the newb question. I am still pretty new to the Jeep scene.

**Varkyl** · 03-04-2006, 01:12 PM

no problem. But it is normal when dealing with disc brakes that you use a large screwdriver/prybar to free the caliper up some to be able to remove it easily. It is something that you just get used to after a while.

Kcolg · 03-04-2006, 01:31 PM

It is very common, it is a good sign that the brake system is working well with no leaks.

Dtowncats · 03-04-2006, 02:32 PM

Oh yeah, I wanted to ask you guys how you compress the piston. I am not sure where I should place the C clamp. On my Mustang, I could just wiggle it enough and it would slide off.

**Varkyl** · 03-04-2006, 02:50 PM

if you haven't gotten the calipers off yet use a large flat blade screwdriver or prybar. You place it so you can apply pressure between the rotor and pad on the psiton side and pry. This will compress the piston just enough to be able to remove the caliper. Then use your c-clamp to compress it the rest of the way.

Dtowncats · 03-04-2006, 02:55 PM

Wow, you're on top of things Varkyl. Thanks again.

Nope haven't tried again today. Getting pretty cold out now. Tomorrow morning I will get them done.

///BHRpowered · 03-04-2006, 03:10 PM

woo hoo, Now I'm a JF supportor.

anyway, I actually have a piston compressor. basicallys its 2 flat metal hands you place inbetween 2 pads and screw like a clamp at the bottom. Opens each side the same amount, quick and easy. 5 bucks any autoparts store.