Can' t get front calipers back on.

[mpappas]

Hello all, this is my first post here. I own a 1991 Subaru Legacy L+ FWD sedan with 135,000 miles. Car has been incredibly reliable. I am now changing my front brake pads, and the new pads seem so thick, I can't get the calipaers back on the rotors. I opened up the bleed nut, and have tried pushing the pads apart, but can't get enough space between the pads to get the caliper back onto the rotor. Rotors are new stock, and pads are new stock both from Suabaru, so I know they are the right parts. When I squeeze the pads together, a little brake fluid drips out, but I can't get enough out to make the space I need. Car has ABS if that's any help. Is there some trick to this, I've changed brakes before on other car, and didn't have problem This car is unbelieveably reliable, what a great car to live with for the past 14 years. Car is temporarily not driveable unless I just put the old pads back on, but that's a last resort. Back-up car I'm using (1992 Toyota Cressida) has no working heater, and temps are in signle digits here, I want my great heater Legacy back as soon as possible. Thanks for any help you all can provide.

[dzx]

you should use a vice grips c-clamp or whatever they are called. otherwise its almost impossible to get them back in by hand. I had a good mark on my stomach from trying to shove them in with a bar.

[vrg3]

Yeah, a c-clamp with acme threads is what you need. Force the piston back.

[LaureltheQueen]

that's what I used.

[legacy92ej22t]

YEp, use a c-clamp and one of the old pads to push it back. It's like butter I tell you, butter!

[mpappas]

Thanks all very much. I will try this tonight when I get home from work. I think you guys saved me about $210....that's what the dealer wanted for a front brake job. Can't wait to get back to my Legacy.

[IronMonkeyL255]

I have a big red c-clamp in my tool box just for brakes.

[DLC]

I used a box wrench across both pots, and used my hands as a c-clamp

I have big, strong hands though.

[Yukonart]

I have big, strong hands though.

[eastbaysubaru]

And if you haven't already, remove the cap from the master cylinder and watch for brake fluid spills as you push in the pistons.

-Brian

[LaureltheQueen]

rawrrrr