Topic: 550 front brakes

[colmbarry]

On removing stuck pad & cylinder from the front caliper.  I have read many posts here suggesting the use of compressed air or a grease gun to pop out these parts.  My question is, how do you hook up for air or grease ?  If using the grease gun method, what size zerk fitting do you use ?  Is it a standard size, readily available ?   If using compressed air, what kind of fitting do you use ?  What size is it ? Is it easily available ? Is it like a shrader valve where you would use the same airhose end that you use to inflate a tire.

Thanks.

Colm

[csendker]

I used a small grease gun.  If I recall correctly, you take the female zerk fitting OFF the end of the gun.  The corresponding thread, while not exact, will fit the brake hose fitting just enough to grab on. Then start pumping grease into the caliper to force the piston & pad out (with the bleeder closed). 

[csendker]

And if you use air, be careful as the whole mess can blast out of the caliper like a bullet.

[wildbill903]

i just popped mine back on the bike and pumped brake fluid through it.  Put a catch can under so you dont spill brake fluid all over, that can cause quite a mess. 

[Jonesy]

And if you use air, be careful as the whole mess can blast out of the caliper like a bullet.

It will have a bang like a rifle, too- wear ear protection! Compressed air is not my first choice for this task... kinda dangerous.

[Paul]

To the best of my knowlage....
The port where the brake line goes in is 1/8" BSP thread.
I think a 1/8" NPT will go in enough to bite (but mind the threads)

If you can get at the ring / groove area around the cylinder/piston, try to get all the corroded alluminium (aluminum) out as this acts to prevent the piston from comming out.

I find if you put the caliper into something like a ziplock bag and / or a box/tin to keep everything from spraying everywhere....they are a #$%* to move.