So I was mentioning to an aviation mechanic that the Brembo design is such that the pads can be removed through the top of the caliper for pad changes, I would assume at the track. His question to me was how do they push the pistons back into the caliper to accommodate the new pad thickness. Since I've never done this I didn't know. So we head out to youtube and find several butchers putting end wrenches between the rotor and caliper jamming back the pistons. I have to tell you boys (and ladies) it was hard to watch. So I told him I'd check with the board, I said there is no way these guys are jamming metal end wrenches in there and scratching / scoring the pistons. So how do you guys do this?

Edit, I wanted to say to the youtube hacks why not at least use a wood shim? I wouldn't even prefer that but it has to be safer than an end wrench.

 

I use a pad spreader. There are a few different designs. you can find them on amazon, tooltopia, other sites.

 

large screw driver between old pad and rotor,there is no need to touch the piston side or if the caliper is of a closed top.......large c-clamp,large channel locks etc

 

Ex, those sound like good ideas for the caliper all the way off, you aren't saying you put a flat blade against the rotor and old pad are you? Anyhow if you want to see some cringeworthy work check out youtube. Myself I don't favor the idea of a flat blade against my rotor surface but that's just me.

 

yes.....pry between the old pad and rotor.......cringe if you want....it will not bend the rotor.....this is for a caliper still bolted on with an open to that you can get a pry in there

 

LOL I know it won't bend the rotor but scratching it or gouging it is a strong possibility, everyone in their own way.

 

the blade end pushes against the pad.......the leverage is at the end of the rotor

 

OK copy that, thanks, I don't track mine so it's never going to be an issue, just didn't want to leave the guy with the A&P license without any answers.

 

Most of the cars I've had over several decades (none of them Porsches) have pads that extract through the top of the caliper. I've always used a small pry and a block of wood. Never harmed any brake parts.

 

I use a shamy rag/cloth to cover the end of the tool I am prying with to avoid scratches.

 

Changing pads is one of the more rewarding jobs you can do. It is tough to mess it up, goes quickly, and saves you a ton of money. It is nearly impossible to damage a rotor with a screw driver - even if you scratch it slightly, you now have a slotted rotor. The more delicate part of the job is removing the pin and dealing with the sensor.

A screw driver works fine. That said, a spreader works better - much better. I got one of these for my E46 M3 and still use it on my Spyder. https://www.bavauto.com/catalog/prod...saAlufEALw_wcB

It works perfectly - might as well have one.

For the initial spread, you need to use a screw driver to pry open the old pads enough to slide out, but for the replacement, a spreader can't be beat. Don't forget to take out some fluid and open the reservoir before you spread them.

 

I just use the old brake pad.
Well, I did before Porsche gave us the cheaper calipers that need to be removed. Who thought that was a good idea?

 

Yep. What he said. Not so sure I'd try that with PCCB's but steel rotors? All day long.

 

I understand what you guys are saying, I wasn't trained that way. If my dad saw you doing that in our repair center he wouldn't let it become habit. We were spinning our belts to avoid scratching, covering seats to protect them from grease and using disposable floor mats in an era when other repair centers thought we were cuckoo. We took pride in our reputation.

 

This is what I've always done. Use the old pad to gently, evenly, and slowly lever the pistons all the way back in to allow enough room for the new beefy pad to drop right in.

Dave
'05 987S
'92 968 SP3 (uses a set of front pads every 2 events)
'88 944 NA (used pads at an even more alarming rate - tiny brakes on that one)