Which is the correct way to tighten a brake caliper bolt?
Which is the correct way to tighten a brake caliper bolt?
Note: While we’re all taught that lefty-loosey – righty-tighty is the preferred method, some brake caliper bolts are reverse thread. This is where referring to your vehicle’s service manual is critical.
What are the advantages of threading in reverse?
The major advantage of threading in reverse is to be able to thread away from a shoulder. Simply mounting an upside down threading tool on the back side of the lathe will still thread towards the headstock. The may be some advantage regarding reduction of chatter but aside from that possibility, no reason to not thread in the conventional manner.
Do you need to rethread the threads in a brake bolt?
If your bolt and bolt hole did not pass the “play” test above, you’ll need to rethread or clean the inner threads of the bolt holes before installation. To accomplish this, you’ll need a thread cleaner – commonly referred to as a thread chaser – that matches the exact thread as your spindle.
Is there a universal torque setting for brake calipers?
This is where most amateur mechanics make a critical mistake by searching online or asking a public forum for the right torque pressure for tightening brake caliper bolts. Since all brake calipers are unique to each manufacturer, and often made from different materials, there is no universal torque pressure setting for brake calipers.
Note: While we’re all taught that lefty-loosey – righty-tighty is the preferred method, some brake caliper bolts are reverse thread. This is where referring to your vehicle’s service manual is critical.
If your bolt and bolt hole did not pass the “play” test above, you’ll need to rethread or clean the inner threads of the bolt holes before installation. To accomplish this, you’ll need a thread cleaner – commonly referred to as a thread chaser – that matches the exact thread as your spindle.
This is where most amateur mechanics make a critical mistake by searching online or asking a public forum for the right torque pressure for tightening brake caliper bolts. Since all brake calipers are unique to each manufacturer, and often made from different materials, there is no universal torque pressure setting for brake calipers.
What kind of tool do you use to retract brake calipers?
A Left-Hand (LH) tool to retract the Passenger’s side caliper. For this particular tool, attachment #4 was what I used for the Transit brake calipers.
