Anyone not using a C-clamp and a piece of wood?

[DewMan]

For pushing motorcycle brake caliper pistons?

Is there a dedicated tool worth buying to replace the C-clamp method?

[geophb]

I use my hands. And sometimes the old pad + c clamp if its stiff. Or channel locks with padding. 

On cars where both rotor and pad are getting replaced, I use a pry bar to move pistons back before pulling caliper.

 

 

 

What about this thing?

Edited July 16, 2020 by geophb

[Yakko Warner]

Auto Disc Brake Pad Installation Caliper Piston Compressor Press Spreader Tool

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<li> Description:</li> <li> <ul> <li>This item is an essential tool for retracting the brake piston to allow insertion of...

 

[tavisb]

I usually just use my hands ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[klx678]

I used a couple C clamps, but next time I'll use a couple smaller Quick Grip clamps, that way I can use them for wood projects and other stuff.

 

[RobZilla]

On motorcycles I use my hands, hasn’t been hard to compress back. Cars I use the c-clamp and wood UNLESS the calipers twist in via a special pin tool that fits on a 3/8ths socket. I found that out the hard way.

[phil/tx]

Just twist the caliper agents the disc after removing the mount bolts, then make sure you don't touch the brake lever.

[DewMan]

Thanks for all the responses guys. 

Looks like most solutions are variation of the C-clamp and wood for those stubborn piston where hand pushing isn't sufficient.

 

[xfonts]

1 hour ago, DewMan said:

Thanks for all the responses guys. 

Looks like most solutions are variation of the C-clamp and wood for those stubborn piston where hand pushing isn't sufficient.

 

What you want to do is use the old brake pads, and use a flat head to push it back. Some leverage on the bracket might be needed or if you get a skinny enough one that can go all the way, just pull from both ends of the flat head.

[Spatt]

If your using clamps to push in caliper pistons might be time to rebuild.  They should in pretty easy.

 

Might want to pull the calipers and clean them with simple green and rinse with water.  Just takes a second and an old tooth brush.

[crazycd1]

I almost always get away with a flat screwdriver and the caliper still mounted unless the caliper is in poor condition. Sometimes on some applications I remove one pad from the caliper and reinstall to push the piston if need for a spot to get a bite with the screwdriver or pry bar. Also have a cheap Amazon set for the twist in type calipers.

[Beemer]

In the past I've only used C-clamps and wood.