fstfwd

iTrader: (1)

I have over 100k mi on the front calipers... and during a recent brake pad swap, we notice the pistons were really tough to push in... and didn't slide in or out very easily. My mechanic thought they should have a little more freedom of movement.

So, I was wondering if it's expensive/worth getting those rebuilt - who does it? cost? Or is there a good OEM size replacement caliper someone recommends that will get the job done as well.

I'd really like to get a nice "clamping" feeling when pressing on the brakes hard, rather than a slower decrease in the speed. We just resurfaced the rotors, I have stainless steel braided lines and the original Master cylinder.

Mahjik

iTrader: (1)

Rebuilding them doesn't take a ton of effort. The rebuild kits are fairly inexpensive (as long as all your pistons are in good shape):

http://www.mazdatrix.com/getprice.as...m=49-2400-FB05

That kit will rebuild both front calipers (not by themselves, with your labor that is).

melicha8

iTrader: (1)

Seeing as you can get 4 piston calipers for under 50.00 that don't need rebuilding I ask what's the point

Mahjik

iTrader: (1)

Calipers? Where would that be?

http://www.mazdatrix.com/getprice.as...m=33-990D-FD13

mazdadude7

iTrader: (4)

well idk if buying another set of used calipers is the ticket? i am also considering rebuilding them... i love it when my car's brakes work!

fstfwd

iTrader: (1)

Thanks Mahjik. I wouldn't have even considered doing them myself, but I guess that's an option I'll consider now.

$50 a caliper... only if they are off a wreck, and they probably have the same miles on them that I have. But, hey.. if you find some - shoot me a PM. Heh.

SPICcnmGT

I actually just did this this past weekend on my car for the first time. It is really super easy, kinda messy, but probably takes at most 2hrs and that is being slow trying to clean everything good. And it did seem to help on the pistons releasing, as my brakes were dragging rather badly.

fstfwd

iTrader: (1)

Any "what ever you do, don't..." tips you could send my way?

SPICcnmGT

Don't try to take anything apart except for removing the pistons and seals associated with them. I tried taking the caliper apart before I looked in the service manual and it pretty much says not to, luckly I only had one bolt about half out. Thats pretty much the only don't I have.

I used 2 screwdrivers to get the pistons out. They have a lip where the dust shield goes and I just pried with one on each side. I also totally removed the caliper from the car, which you probably don't have to do but it will be very very messy if you don't because it will probably keep leaking fluid out, and you won't be able to clean the caliper very well if you don't. Also stop up the brake line with something as it will drip constantly, if not be prepared to put fluid in it about every 10min to keep it full so you won't get air in the lines. Be careful putting the pistons back in, they go in fairly easy with some minor force if you have them aligned right. And last have fun with the dust boots and the metal clamps to hold them on they are a pain.

Mahjik

iTrader: (1)

I would recommend wet sanding the pistons down during the rebuild. Just use some 600-800 grit paper and make them nice and smooth.

As far as getting the pistons out, check this thread:

https://www.rx7club.com/suspension-wheels-tires-brakes-20/brake-caliper-piston-removal-333883/

cesarx7

iTrader: (1)

https://www.rx7club.com/3rd-generation-specific-1993-2002-16/caliper-cleanup-rebuild-%2Apics%2A-388264/

Fault Bucket

Remans are amazingly cheap for the 4-pots. I paid about $35 each for remans not too long ago. You use your current ones as cores. For that price it's not worth it to rebuild IMO.