sticking caliper ?

[froggy]

Hi, my S2 Xantia. sometimes when I reverse out of the drive in the morning, I hear a squeak , binding of the front O.S. brake caliper, it only happens very briefly . I am guessing the caliper needs a good clean. never done it. is it straight forward? Thanks in advance Terry.

[CitroJim]

It could be binding on the slides Terry... Clean and re-lubricate with brake grease.

The calipers are held onto the strut via two T55 Torx bolts... They can be biblically tight and demand a good quality Torx bit and a decent breaker bar.

Be sure to makes sure the Torx head on the bolt is thoroughly clean and free of debris and then make sure by hammering the bit home. You don't want it slipping...

Checks the pads are sliding freely in the caliper. Often rust scale and old brake dust build up to prevent them moving freely. Again, clean thoroughly...

Also check that the handbrake cables are OK.. If one was partially seizing that could be a cause too... Despite looks, they are easy to change...

If that lot does not resolve it, then you are looking at a full caliper strip and overhaul. Kits are available (or were). It's a job that needs a bit of care to do though...

Sorry if I'm teaching you to suck eggs here as I'm sure you know but don't forget you need to wind back the caliper pistons using an appropriate tool... Don't try to push the pistons back as you would on a conventional caliper with no handbrake mechanism...

[froggy]

Thanks Jim.

[Peter.N.]

I use a short cut that usually works. I have a small oil can containing brake fluid, Gently lift the rubber seal round the piston with a small screwdriver, when you can see the piston squirt it liberally with brake fluid until its running out, reassemble and test. Probably not the ideal remedy but useful in an emergency.

Peter

[froggy]

cheers

[MattBLancs]

I use a short cut that usually works. I have a small oil can containing brake fluid, Gently lift the rubber seal round the piston with a small screwdriver, when you can see the piston squirt it liberally with brake fluid until its running out, reassemble and test. Probably not the ideal remedy but useful in an emergency.

Peter

Also adding to this, working piston in and out close to it's full travel also helps often too. Wind in with wind- back tool, then back tool off and slowly push it out (gentle, slow pedal pressure, best with someone watching the piston move) don't let it over extend and pop out though!

[CitroJim]

I use a short cut that usually works. I have a small oil can containing brake fluid, Gently lift the rubber seal round the piston with a small screwdriver, when you can see the piston squirt it liberally with brake fluid until its running out, reassemble and test. Probably not the ideal remedy but useful in an emergency.

Peter

Not brake fluid Peter... Use LHM on a Xantia! An excellent tip indeed

[Peter.N.]

My last use was on a 406 Jim. Difficult to get out of the habit though. Now its LDS.

Peter

[CitroJim]

My last use was on a 406 Jim. Difficult to get out of the habit though. Now its LDS.

That's fully understood Peter