Cadillac Repair: 96 Cadillac rear brakes, caliper piston, rear caliper

Question
I am trying to change rear brake pads and can't seem to force the cylinder back to gain space for the new pads. Should the cylinder retract by using a clamp?  The parking brake is released.

Answer
Hi John,

      The newer vehicles meaning in the last 10 years are all going to the style where you have to turn the rear caliper piston in. In other words you don't push the piston in with a C-clamp like the front calipers. The other problem is some manufacturers have decided that instead of turning the piston in clockwise like most out there they make both or just the LR turn in counter clockwise.

    So...the rule of thumb is that if there are 2 or 4 notches on the rear caliper piston it needs to be pushed and turned in at the same time. And if it doesn't want to turn clockwise then try the other way.

     There are 2 different tools out there to push in the caliper. They make a cube that is used with a 3/8" ratchet and extension that you provide the push while turning. It might sell for $8.99    Otherwise if you have an Autozone, Oreilly or Pep Boys they have loaner tools that you won't have to buy and the good news is they have the kind with the forcing screw and disc to engage the notches on the pistons so turning in the piston is really easy.

      Hope that helps. Bill