Brake rebuilding sequence?

I'm going to rebuild the caliper, install new pads, and rebuild the master cylinder (first time) on my 550 Maxim. Does it make sense to do those in a particular order? Seems like it might be good to do the caliper and pads first and then the master cylinder since I'll want to pump in new fluid. That way I won't have to adjust later to get the fluid level right in the cylinder???


Thanks.

 

I use the master to pump the pistons out of the calipers, so makes sense to do the calipers first.

Your going to have to empty the entire system of fluid and pump new stuff through so I'm not sure what your last comment means

 

I've never done this before so, technically, I don't know what my last comment means either...

...except to say that my understanding was that it is much more difficult to bleed the brakes if you empty the system. I was intending to pump it out while adding new fluid into the MC and basically replace it all until it's nice and clean. Maybe I should add while letting it drain before hooking it back up? Like I said, it's my first attempt.

Right now, though, I've got the caliper disassembled and my piston is frozen tight so I guess I need to figure out how to free that up first. I suppose that might explain why my front brake didn't work.

Thanks!

 

I find it easier to bleed an empty system thatn to mess around trying to keep fluid in there... Either way should work

 

Do you have a bleeder tool of some kind or do you do it hand just using the brake lever?

 

Just by hand... It takes a while but you just have to persevere.. Or buy a tool

 

Thanks.

 

buy a vacumn pump...works great for bleeding brakes....the hand job with the just the brake lever takes forever....

 

That's what I've heard. I'm not real sure how often I'd use the pump, though, so I don't think I want to spend the money. Maybe on my second or third round of brakes I'll be sick enough of it to pick one up.

 

But this method helps you develop a really firm, manly handshake!

 

Some auto parts stores like Autozone will loan you a vacuum pump for free. You just have to pay a deposit.

 

Now that's an interesting possibility. I didn't realize that was one of their loaner tools. Thanks!

And my handshake is PLENTY manly, Chacal. AND I shower with Irish Spring.

 

Then you are, truly, "zestfully clean"...........congratulations are in order!

 

Since you are rebuilding the brake system you might as well remove and disassemble the master cylinder to make sure it is thoroughly cleaned out. Good time to check the rubber piston cups for wear (or just get a rebuild kit and replace them). If the system has not had routine fluid changing, the microscopic pressure release hole easily clogs. The main new tool you will probably end up buying are long-nose pin pliers to remove the metal "C" clip (the ones in auto stores are generally not long enough to get the pins into the "C" clip holes).

 

The MC will be rebuilt next. I've got the parts for that project and will start in on it after the caliper is done. Thanks.