So I decided to change my rotors to the drilled and slotted Rotorpros and purchased front and rear Hawk pads to compliment. Now I am no professional but I can turn a wrench, so I tried to do the install myself.

Front rotor and pad install went smoothly. Had to pry the front pistons open to fit the new bulkier pads but everything went on without a hitch.

Now here is where I really goofed. I now know after an hour of messing with the rear pads and doing more research that they require a special tool to retract the piston. I did try prying on both the passenger and drivers side rear to get them to release before I knew about the tool needed. I got the special tool and began to turn clockwise...after endless turning it looks as though the piston does not want to retract. It turns but doesnt look to be going into the caliper. I Tried the other side and the same results.

How do I know if I have ruined the pistons? I dont think I pryed too much on it...but I dont know how much they take before they give out. Any suggestions? Ive quit for the night...but going to try and re-install the stock pads and see if the caliper itself is still functioning tomorrow (well technically this morning). I feel like the dumbest person in the world right now...chalking this one up to a learning experience. Any help would be very much appreciated guys... lets get those Rear hawk pads in there and working

 

You have to turn and apply preasure at the same time to get the caliper to retrac. Check for leaks? When you install the new parts and reasemble press the brake pedal to see if the caliper move out. You may want to open the bleeder so you don't push any drirt back to the A,B,S unit or master cylender!

 

I dobt you did any damage to them...... and what boss429 said. push and turn

 

+1 I doubt you did any damage. Also, you need to push with a lot of pressure and turn at the same time. I'd have someone hold the caliper and then you push and turn with the tool. If you bought the universal tool that looks like a cube, it doesn't work very well and loves to slip off the piston

 

What tool is there besides the universal cube tool?

 

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgu...F_enUS272US273
free rental at autozone

 

Thanks Glenn!

 

I too have heard you should open the bleed screw when pushing the pistons back. Makes it easier AND keeps dirt from being pushed into the ABS unit.

 

Yep push and turn at the same time.

And yes i know this is a one of those stupid questions but it has to be asked.

You did release the parking brake inside the car correct?

 

Thanks guys... I used the tool Glenn suggested and walla...pistons compressed...also I opened the bleed valve while compressing. Rotors and Pads are on and broken in!! Thanks all for your help

 

thanks for the tips, i have worked on both of my 05 mustangs and have had more trouble getting the rear piston in. thanks for the tool advice.

 

Tools are a man's and a woman's best friend.

 

i bought a set of mac tools caliper retractors. Great tools. i have to imagine that you did not do anyy real damage just check for leaks down the road.

 

I just did mine a couple of weeks ago. That little universal cube is a POS doesnt work. Just go to Autozone or most auto stores have free rental tools which work great on the rear disc brake cars. Thats what I did. The tools at Advanced Auto Parts were a little nicer than the ones at Autozone I went to both.

Twist and push thats the key also I found it works much easier if you have the BLEEDER screw LOOSE while your twisting and pushing. Push hard and it will go in dont expect to much retraction though. Make sure after you flush the system with clean brake fluid check for leaks. While your at it might as well paint the calipers.

 

Well guys I promised pics!! Here are a few of the car and then of the wheels with the new Rotors and pads







The Rotors came Black Zinc coated



Old Brake Pad Hawk Brake Pad







I have the G2 Black Caliper Paint... I just need a day to get it done and allow it to dry. Thanks again for everyones help..this is a great site!!