Replacing brake rotors and pads, caliper spreader question
 

I am just about to change out my rotors and pads but before I do I want to buy a caliper spreader as to compress the pistons to make it easier to put over the rotors. I was wondering if this, http://www.all-tool.com/BY_MASTER_CA...e_tools_16.htm ,will work on our calipers. Thanks for your time.

First off, the rear calipers need to be screwed back in. So you would need another tool for that too. I just use a good set of needle nose plyers to turn them back in. There are a couple of threads about people who couldn't press the rear calipers back in that are kinda funny.

Secondly, I just use a cheap large set of plumbing plyers to press the fronts in. Works perfectly.

I do suggest you also search through the suspension section as there are some informative threads about getting the rotors off. If yours are anything like mine, they will be stuck on pretty tight.

Bleed the brakes while you are there.

No it will not. The four piston front calipers don't have room for the tool. I am a nut so I bought the special tool from Mazda Motorsports:

http://www.mazdamotorsports.com/wcsc...00-09-0216.jpg

If you don't have that one remove the calipers but leave the pads installed. Crack the bleed valve open and pry the pads apart with a couple wrenches or use a large c-clamp to push the pads in; this will retract the pistons. Close up the bleed valve once the pistons are seated.

Your pictured tool will not work on the rear either because you have to turn the pistons in order to restract them. You can use the tips of a pair of needle nose or you can buy a "rear disc brake tool" from an autoparts store.

What size C-Clamp do you recommend to make this the easiest possible solution?

I just use a 23 or 24mm wrench with a garage rag wrapped around it (just to keep from damaging anything) to push the front pistons in...

On the rear, you'll need the tool (places like NAPA carry them).

Be careful trying to press in a piston, if there is still pressure in the line and you press one pot in, another may pop out altogether.

BTW, that tool (first post) won't work because it cannot get down inside the caliper.

That shouldn't happen if you have the bleed valve open (and you should if you are pressing the pistons).

i dont remeber what i did but i got the tool from the first pic to work when i did mine. Like everyone else said you have to screw in the rear caliper. Needle nose pliers work exceptionally well.
-stephen

That tool in the first post is pretty getto, they go for about $5 at the local parts store and arent even worth that. The plastic knob stips out and the then it is worthless. Get a medium sized C-clamp, they work alot better and you can use it for more than just your brakes.

most part stores will loan you the tool for the fronts