I've googled it, and just get videos saying clean it with alcohol or brake cleaner. I've done both. It still won't budge. I thought about bleeding the brakes, but can't because the caliper that won't go back in is stopping the fluidfrom flowing. I'm guessing I need to take it apart, but not sure how? Any tips or thoughts on how to get this back in, much appreciated.
When I close my brakes, the calipers on both brakes don't move at all (in case it's important info).
Thanks in advance for any help. Super annoying as I'm meant to spin tomorrow, training for Strade Bianchi, but doesn't look like I'm gonna make it š
by craigstone_
2 Comments
Are these hydraulic brakes ? If yes and they arenāt from f.e. Shimano (which uses mineral oil ) but f.e. SRAM ( which uses DOT ) then it could be about that your brakes urgently need a bleedingā¦ I know it sounds strange but the DOT oil collects with time water and in this way the amount of liquid inside becomes more and more what leads exactly to such a resultā¦
Do not take this apart! While the piston is extended, you need to “floss” it. I use a very very fine grade of sandpaper (600+ grit) cut 2mm wide and about 10-15 cm long. Gently buff the exposed sides of the piston. You can wet sand with alcohol as well (dip the emory cloth or sand paper in alcohol). Use a Q-tip covered in alcohol to remove any residue. You can apply a small amount of whatever fluid your brake system uses to the piston as a lubricant with a Q-tip. Some people will poo-poo this idea, but I’ve never had a problem. Now get a piece of wood that will fit between the pistons so that force can be applied evenly and try and force the piston back in. I’ve also used a metal motorcycle tire spoon to pry the piston back in as long as there is something covering and protecting the surfaces. Don’t be afraid to apply a lot of force. The pistons will budge, and you can then start to work them out again, lubricate, and push them back in. Clean the whole area with isopropyl alcohol before replacing the pads, This should do it. Check out the Park tools video on You Tube as well.