Rear caliper removal

[CoastRider]

Going through the Clymer manual (p237) for directions on how to rebuild the rear brake caliper it says I have to pull the axle to remove the caliper assembly. Looking at the path of travel for the axle it appears I have to drop the stock exhaust to get it out. I don’t suppose there's an alternative to this procedure?

Thanks,

Jason

[BA80]

The axle, really? 1 bolt and the brake line hose.

The axle has to come out to remove the caliper anchor but not the caliper itself.

[natemoen]

Yeah, just the bolt at the bottom of the caliper caliper itself and the brake line just like the front calipers. No need to remove the whole caliper mounting plate.

[bikerphil]

Don't forget about the small screw on the inboard side, remove it thru the wheel spokes.

[jayel]

might be easier to pull the rear shocks to move the swingarm than pulling the exhaust if you do need to pull the axle

[BA80]

Don't forget about the small screw on the inboard side, remove it thru the wheel spokes.

He he, I ALWAYS forget that thing.

[CoastRider]

I gotta say you guys are on the ball. Huge thanks for the info.
Jason

[CoastRider]

After I pull the clip and the boot should the seal and the piston just slide out?

[dpotter58]

i use air pressure to blow the caliper out

[bikerphil]

Usually not, you'll probably have to use hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder to push it out. If it's off the bike already you can use compressed air, watch your fingers, the air will pop the piston out with great force.

[CoastRider]

Ok got them apart. A good cleaning and they should be good to go. And no kidding on the compressed air. Almost shot it across the shop.

[BA80]

Be sure and get that groove the seal goes into good and clean. Crap likes to build up in there behind the seal.

[CoastRider]

Good advice Greg, they are nasty. Knocking off on brakes for tonight and switching to something easy like middle and final drive oil change. Just finished cleaning the gas tank so tomorrow I'm going to hook up the rebuilt carbs and hopefully fire it up. It sat 10 years before I got it with gas in the tank and carbs. Then I'll get back to the brakes tomorrow afternoon. Hopefully my 2 year on again off again project will see the rode next week. Just in time to ride from Oregon to South Dakota with a buddy of mine.
Jason

[ManagerMike]

Usually not, you'll probably have to use hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder to push it out. If it's off the bike already you can use compressed air, watch your fingers, the air will pop the piston out with great force.

I place a block of wood (or in the case of calipers of this stature, a shim of wood) in the throat of the caliper when using the compressed air method.