Re: Brake Tool

["Fred Munro" <munrof@isys.ca>]

>Chris Newbold <cnewbold@transarc.com>
>
>> Al Powell wrote:
>> > There is a generic brake piston (Lisle is one I've seen) tool
>> > available at most import parts stores for about $10 - no problem.
>> > It's shaped like a small cube, with a socket inset on each side and
>> > different kinds of ears on each side.
>>
>> I bought this tool when I first attempted the rear pads
>> on my '93 90. It doesn't fit. Of the sides with only two "ears" (the
>> Girlings have only two holes) none of them were far enough apart to
>> fit... :-(
>
>[snippage]
>
>> Lisle makes a different tool, a disc with two "ears" on it and
>> a hole for a ratchet extension in the center...
>
>I made a tool for this job out of a large socket:
>
>First, measure the approx. outside diameter of the piston.
>
>Second, head for pawn shop to find cheapie socket of approx. same
>diameter (buy two, you might mess one up...)
>
>Third, hold up socket to piston, mark approx. locations of ears
>needed, using good marker on outside of socket
>
>Finally, use the bench grinder (I bought one at the pawnshop - this
>project made a great excuse  :-) to grind off about 3/8 of material
>from the socket, leaving ears as needed.  This requires some slow
>going and multiple checks for fit, but it WILL work.  I got mine
>right the first time, by some bizarre coincidence!
>
>
>*******************************************************
>Al Powell                        Voice:  409/845-2807
>107 Reed McDonald Bldg.          Fax:    409/862-1202
>College Station, TX 77843
>Http://agcomwww.tamu.edu/agcom/satellit/alpage.htm
>*******************************************************
>


    Wow! I hesitate to offer my humble excuse for a brake tool, but here
goes!
     I use a pair of 6" needle nose Vise Grip pliers. With the handles shut,
the adjusting screw can be used to set the jaws at the exact opening
required. The jaw tips fit perfectly into the slots in the piston face.
Since the pliers are not clamped on the piston and are only engaged in the
slots, there is little chance of slipping and marring the pristine boots.
Works like a charm on my '91 200q.

Fred Munro

'91 200q  245k km