How to clean brake caliper?

[impulse001]

I am in the process of changing my brake calipers, and I noticed the caliper is pretty dirty, so I wanted to clean it up a bit. I removed it from the brake line, can I just spray it down with brake cleaner and scrub it, or do I have to take it apart further first?

 

[BlownFiveLiter]

You can scrub it with brake cleaner, but be careful around the seal when you're scrubbing.

 

[impulse001]

Would I be better off just buying new ones? My local parts store sells them for only $28 each.. Or do you know of a good website to buy better ones? I wont mind spending some more money for better, nicer looking calipers..

 

[Mustang5L5]

diskbrakesrus sells powdercoated versions.

I'd just buy new ones and paint them up. If you prep and use quality paint, it will last a decent amount of time. The duplicolor brush on kits work nicely

 

[impulse001]

Ok, ill just get the advanced auto parts store ones... Do I have to change the brake fluid as well, or just bleed the brakes?

What about stainless steel brake lines? Since im working on the brakes anyway.. Are these worth it? Do they give you better braking, or is it just for looks?

 

[Mustang5L5]

Yes, SS line work. You'll feel a firmer pedal. I'd suggest replacing the rear body to axle line as well. I wouldn't say they are for looks, because onces installed...you can't see them

Def bleed all 4 brakes. It's one of the easiest things you can do to improve pedal feel. I bleed my brakes yearly, and each time the brakes feel much better.

 

[impulse001]

Ok, thanks for all the replies... I feel a lot more confident with this now... One last question, if I was to replace the fluid, can I refill it with DOT 5 or 4, or do I have to stick to 3?

 

[Mustang5L5]

I used this stuff in my cars

 

[impulse001]

Looks good, lol.. Thanks again for all the replies..

 

[S&B]

I use a steel brush mounted on a high speed drill, they make the brushes to mount in the drill you can get them at home depot or where ever. I use that to clean the caliper real well then use brake clean and a towel to get a good cleap prior to paint. Use a good caliper paint that you is a 2 part apoxy not that spray on crap from vato zone. I have done this to many a car and have never had any issue with the paint comming off to fast. After 10 years you will have to redo it