How do I compress my rear brake piston?

Question

I have a 96 Ford Taurus GL. Changeing my rear brakes and Someone told me to use needle noses to turn the piston to compress and that isnt working, its just turning and not compressing. C clamp doesnt work. What can I do?

Answer 1

You need to TURN the piston CLOCKWISE, and compress the piston SIMULTANEOUSLY to move the piston back into the housing. Be sure the two grooves on the piston are oriented in the 12 and 6 o'clock positions relative to the caliper when you are finished. That's where the lock tab on the backing of the brake pad sits. You should NOT need to touch the bleeder screw for this procedure. Be sure to spray some WD-40 or penetrating fluid onto the piston so that you don't damage the rubber piston boot in the process. Hope this helps.

Answer 2

Do not try a C clamp,....it will never work. There are slots in the piston,........there is a special tool that locks into those grooves and you turn the piston and it will retract (turn clock wise). I have used needle nose vice grips,but you should be careful not to damage the piston if you do it this way. I have a 99 SHO. First time I did the rear brakes I had no clue and had the same problem. Thanks, Rob in PA.

Answer 3

man if a C-clamp wont work, go to your local vatozone and pick up a piston compressor.they run about 10 bucks,but the crappy plastic handle will break on you first use I'm sure. but you can use a wrench to compress it,if that takes place.

Answer 4

Release your parking brake.

Answer 5

It needs ten lbs of torque....works everytime!!!

Answer 6

Did you slacken the bleed nipple before trying?