Freeing off sticking calipers

[Gromit]

Been having a bit of a problem with the front brake caliper on the MZ recently, the brake tends to bind occasionally. I fitted some new pads yesterday but the brake now binds very noticably when pushing the bike around. I've changed disc pads umpteen times on bikes before but never usually had this problem.

My question is...is it ok to push the pistons out of the caliper, though not completely, to clean them up? I don't want to do a total caliper strip (can't be arsed tbh) as it'll mean new seals etc.

Thanks for any advice/info

[Jason M]

Been having a bit of a problem with the front brake caliper on the MZ recently, the brake tends to bind occasionally. I fitted some new pads yesterday but the brake now binds very noticably when pushing the bike around. I've changed disc pads umpteen times on bikes before but never usually had this problem.

My question is...is it ok to push the pistons out of the caliper, though not completely, to clean them up? I don't want to do a total caliper strip (can't be arsed tbh) as it'll mean new seals etc.

Thanks for any advice/info

I've done this a couple of times Rich - pushed them out and cleaned them without trouble. Halfords sell some brake cleaner stuff in a spray can that works a treat - smells weird and probably gives you cancer but who cares as long as your brakes work. If you want a small bit of red rubber grease to put on the pistons I'll send you some in a film can if you like.

Jason

[Gromit]

Thanks Jason - just spent half hour re-fitting the pads, filing the edges slightly so they're really smooth. Seems the pistons weren't actually seizing (fortunately) as on pulling the lever with the pads out, the pistons push out then retract on releasing the lever.

Think things are ok