Replacing Pads/painting Calipers

[txredgt]

Alright fellas stupid question time. I have done this a few times and I really don't have any questions in regards to how to do it (the basics at least), but it seems like everytime I try to collapse the pistons back when reinstalling the new pads I always seem to scratch/remove paint from the calipers after I paint them. I have contemplated painting the calipers mystic but this would just be a waste if I would scratch them after they are painted.

Any tips/tricks to collapse the pistons and reinstalling the pads without removing paint? Usually I just turn to a C clamp to collapse the pistons btw.

 

[BurningRubber]

Fold a shop rag over a few times and place between the c-clamp and caliper.

 

[txredgt]

Fold a shop rag over a few times and place between the c-clamp and caliper.

Not a bad idea either. I actually was over on SVTP looking for this and they had a solid idea; use the old pads with them turned backwards with the 'grip' area towards the pistons and then use the tools that auto supply places have. I have never had good luck with those things but this seems to make alot of sense as it will evenly distribue the pressure to both and not just 1 at each time. I'll be trying this soon as my rear brakes are locked up im pretty sure and the fronts arn't in much better shape.

 

[98gtDan]

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/ac...26l5?itemIdentifier=141493&_requestid=2536146

 

[Kilgore Trout]

You should paint the rotor hats while you are in there. You can also remove the wheel well liners for cleaning and painting.

 

[JhMustangGT03]

i use this. rubber pads = no scratches