Stiff Calliper Piston

[john j]

Hello members, I have a Fusion 1.4 tdci 2005. NOT the later model with the squarer mirrors that was introduced later that year. I bought a set of new brake pads and discs to fit. But I couldn't get the caliper piston to retract to make space for the new pads. It seems incredibly stiff. But I dont think it could be seized as braking has been ok, not pulling to one side. The method I was using to push the piston in was levering a piece of wood against it. This has always worked on the 03 Fusion I used to have. This is the first stiff one I have experienced. I know I could probably use a gclamp but it seems so stiff that I might brake something by forcing it. Does anyone have any ideas.

[iantt]

Crack the bleed nipple off and see if that improves pushing back, if your having to resort to g clamps then its stuck for a reason. Corroded in the bore or piston. Forcing it back with a g clamp probably will damage the seal as the obtruction scrapes past. You got nothing to lose trying though. Check for any leaks afterwards by keep ing substantial pressure on for a few minutes.

[john j]

Thanks for your reply, Haynes manual says sometimes "considerable" force is needed to move piston. Dont know why that should be so. Will take on board your comments.