Brake special tool....

cheesey · Unread post by **cheesey** » 18 Jun 2003, 00:39

hi,
Time to change the front brake pads on my 1.9TD Xantia (94). The book of words say I need a special tool to wind back the piston. It also says that I could make my own.
The question is, What sort of bar do you use? what else fits?
I only ask because time is short and i do not want to strip down the brake only to come to a halt for want of a bar[:I]
thank you.

alexx · Unread post by **alexx** » 18 Jun 2003, 01:23

I used a simple screwdriver on my BX (front brakes are very similar), just taking care not to damage the rubber seals

shaunthesheep · Unread post by **shaunthesheep** » 18 Jun 2003, 01:52

cheesey,
i ordered a brake wind in tool from draper, cost about £5.00, had to order it via my local halfords tho [:(], after trying to wind it bakc in with a screwdriver, flat bar etc
check out http://www.draper.co.uk
dom

Homer · Unread post by **Homer** » 18 Jun 2003, 02:19

I've always used a long screwdriver with a wide (slot) bit to do the turning with a spanner for leverage if it needs it.

JohnD · Unread post by **JohnD** » 18 Jun 2003, 03:25

Get yourself a length, about 10 inches long of 8mm square steel stock to keep in your toolbox. It's all you need for winding back.

Unread post by **alan s** » 18 Jun 2003, 03:48

John,
I use a piece of 5/16" (8mm) key steel as an adjustment tool on my timing chain as well as a sump plug remover. I suspect this is what you are referring to as this brake tool; correct!!
Alan S

blueboy2001 · Unread post by **blueboy2001** » 18 Jun 2003, 05:50

I have used long allen keys for the job in the past, although I have now procured a proper winding tool - was about a fiver from a motor factors and does make the job a lot easier. The Xantia isn't too bad to do without, but on a couple of occasions I did the rears on my Dads old Primera and the shape of caliper required the tool to wind them back.

JohnD · Unread post by **JohnD** » 18 Jun 2003, 23:16

Alan - Yes! the square section is what I use to wind back the pistons. I've been out to check the size - it's actually 9mm, so it's an old piece of 3/8th inch stuff.