TOPIC:

This may seem like a dumb question, but here goes.. I am trying to replace the brake pads on the rear caliper of a 1977 KZ1000A and the Clymer book tells me to push the piston back in prior to placing in the pads. I pushed one piston in but it appears to have two pistons, one of which doesn't move. Here's the question: Is there one or two pistons on this caliper?

Post edited by: lonzof, at: 2006/01/28 23:05

there should only be 1 piston,the other side of the caliper should only be a thin metal plate with a hole in the middle for the screw that goes into the brake pad.BUT i could be wrong

There are two pistons. Use wood to brace the rotor: place the wood in the 'gap' of the caliper on the loosened side of the rotor so that you can push the stubborn piston in with your 'pry bar' more efficiently and without hurting the rotor. You might loosen the bleeder valve to help things as well -- you probably need to replace the brake fluid in the system as well.

Here is a pic where you can see the second piston.

If it's sticking now it will get worse and end up dragging.
Take the pistons out and clean them up with a 'scotchbrite' pad.
Clean the cylinders and ports too.
Dry everything out.
Replace the seals and dust boots. Wet with some brake fluid for ease in getting stuff back together.
If the stuck piston won't come out you can clamp the unstuck piston down with a piece of wood and use the brake hydraulics to push the other one.

-Duck